Watch: Mohammed Siraj’s pearler sends Usman Khawaja packing

On Day 4 of the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Usman Khawaja did not appear at ease while he was at the crease. Jasprit Bumrah tested him early on, but the opener made it through before Mohammed Siraj defeated him in the game’s 19th over. Khawaja attempted a moderate push after the pacer’s full delivery, but the ball slipped through and struck the top of the off-stump before Khawaja could get into the line.

Due to the tremendous strain Mohammed Siraj was under, the experts began to doubt his position in the playing XI in the second innings.

The 30-year-old went wicketless in the first innings of the present Border-Gavaskar Trophy, giving up 122 runs in 23 overs, failing to live up to his talent.

On Day 1, though, he was more disciplined in the opening session, which enabled him to secure Khawaja’s wicket. Following the dismissal, the Hyderabad native performed his customary finger-on-the-lips celebration, and the audience joined in, cheering “DSP, DSP” from the stands.

Watch the video below: 

DSP Siraj, reporting on duty at the MCG! #AUSvINDOnStar 4th Test, Day 4 | LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/4Qx1xVcelz

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 29, 2024

India needed a solid start with the ball, and thus far, the pacers have performed admirably. A large portion of the time, Bumrah appeared unplayable. Sam Konstas was out for eight runs by him, and he nearly sent Marnus Labuschagne back to the pavilion. Labuschagne’s pads were hit by a full delivery bowled by the 31-year-old in the 18th over. Michael Gough, the umpire, nodded his head in favour of the hitter despite a compelling argument.

After giving it some thought, the visitors agreed to examine it. The ball appeared to have pitched in line in the DRS, but the umpire’s ruling was ultimately made. The review was saved, notwithstanding the disappointment of the Indian team. Australia will be bundled early on Day 4 in an attempt to chase the total and seize a 2-1 series lead.