Melbourne, Dec 25, (V7N) – India's captain, Rohit Sharma, has called on his bowlers to provide greater support to star pacer Jasprit Bumrah as the ongoing Test series against Australia heads into its next match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The five-match series is tied at 1-1 following a rain-affected draw in Brisbane.
 
Bumrah has been in sensational form, claiming 21 wickets at an average of 10.90. However, the rest of the Indian bowling attack has struggled, collectively taking 26 wickets at a higher average of 36.81. Sharma emphasized the need for bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and others to step up and share the responsibility.
 
"Bumrah has been outstanding, but Siraj and the others know they must contribute more effectively. They've been trying hard, but there have been missed opportunities," said Sharma.
 
Sharma also reassured that he is fit despite suffering a knee injury during a net session. However, he did not confirm whether he would continue batting at No. 6, a position where he has faced challenges in the series.
 
As temperatures in Melbourne are forecasted to soar to 40°C (104°F), India is considering including two spinners in the lineup. With Ravichandran Ashwin returning home after the Brisbane Test, Washington Sundar and debutant Tanush Kotian are potential candidates for the spin role. Ravindra Jadeja, though wicketless in 23 overs, remains in contention.
 
Meanwhile, Australia will be boosted by the return of Travis Head, who has been in exceptional form, and MCG specialist Scott Boland, who famously took six wickets for seven runs in the 2021-22 Ashes series. Australia will make two changes, with 19-year-old Sam Konstas set to debut for Nathan McSweeney, and Boland replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood.
 
The fifth and final Test will begin on January 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
 
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