NEW DELHI: As India gears up for the Boxing Day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Melbourne’s MCG, two of the team’s standout players, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, are poised to achieve significant career milestones that will not only bolster India’s chances but also add a layer of personal achievement to the intense contest.
Bumrah, the dynamic pacer, is just six wickets away from reaching the 200-wicket mark in Test cricket. With 194 wickets to his name, Bumrah has been in exceptional form in the current series, having taken 21 wickets at an outstanding average of 10.90. His ability to strike quickly and consistently has been a defining feature of his career, and he is expected to become one of the key figures in India’s push for a series lead against Australia.
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Jadeja, on the other hand, is nearing 600 international wickets, a remarkable feat for any bowler. With 593 wickets across all formats, Jadeja is just a handful of wickets away from joining an elite group of players to reach this landmark. His all-around contributions have been invaluable to India, particularly in Test cricket, where his spin bowling and lower-order batting have often turned the tide in key moments. While he has not yet claimed a wicket in this series, his record against Australia remains formidable, and he will be eager to make an impact in the Melbourne Test.
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Both players’ pursuit of personal milestones adds an intriguing subplot to the already high-stakes series. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy level at 1-1, this Test could be crucial for India to seize a lead and improve their standing in the ICC World Test Championship rankings. India is also aiming to secure a place in the WTC final, and the contributions of players like Bumrah and Jadeja will be critical in their quest for victory.