Melbourne, Dec 26, (V7N) – Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has urged his bowling unit to step up and provide more support to star pacer Jasprit Bumrah as the five-match Test series against Australia stands level at 1-1.

Bumrah has been sensational, leading the Indian attack with 21 wickets at a phenomenal average of 10.90. However, the rest of the Indian bowlers have collectively taken just 26 wickets at an average of 36.81.

 “Bumrah has been outstanding so far,” Sharma said. “But the rest of the bowlers, including Siraj, need to step up. They’ve been unlucky at times, but we need a collective effort to win.”

India’s Concerns

Sharma’s fitness remains under scrutiny after a knee injury during practice, though he has declared himself available for the Melbourne Test. The team management is also weighing the inclusion of two spinners, considering Melbourne’s expected high temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F).

With Ravichandran Ashwin retiring and heading home after the Brisbane Test, India’s spin options include:

Washington Sundar

Tanush Kotian (set for a potential debut)

Ravindra Jadeja, despite being wicketless in the series so far.

Australia, on the other hand, is buoyed by the fitness of Travis Head, who has been a standout performer with 409 runs at an average of 81.80, including centuries in Adelaide and Brisbane.

Fast bowler Scott Boland, renowned for his MCG heroics during the 2021-22 Ashes, will replace the injured Josh Hazlewood. Additionally, 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas will replace Nathan McSweeney.

Series Context

Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

Current Status: Series tied 1-1 (following a rain-affected draw in Brisbane).

Next Matches: Fifth and final Test begins January 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

As both teams look to seize the advantage, the spotlight will be on India’s bowling attack to complement Bumrah’s brilliance, while Australia hopes their changes will strengthen their side on a crucial stage of the series.

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