The recently-concluded Lord's Test between India and England, which the latter won by 22 runs, saw plenty of intense moments. The players of both sides engaged in constant sleding, and heated argument between them or over the ball became a common sight.
Amid all this, ex-India cricketer Mohammad Kaif made a stunning observation, and alleged the plan of English bowlers was to injure Jasprit Bumrah if unable to dismiss.
As Ravindra Jadeja waged a lone battle on Day 5, the all-rounder needed support but was unable to find from any of the recognised batter. In walked Bumrah, resuming action in the second session alongside Jadeja with the match in complete grip of the hosts. However, the tail-ender showed great resilience and survived 54 balls, delaying the inevitable.
Also Read | Ben Stokes vs Jasprit Bumrah: A comparison that misses the bigger picture
The show by Bumrah certainly frustrated England, who never gave up. They, particularly Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, constantly launched a barrage of short deliveries, and on many occasions Bumrah was tempted to go for the pull. The only time he managed a connection resulted in his dismissal for 5.
Reflecting his thoughts on the same, Kaif speaking on his YouTube channel noted: "Stokes and Archer planned to bowl bouncers against Bumrah. If he doesn't get out, hit him on the finger or shoulder to injure him. This stays in the mind of bowlers to injure the main bowler, whom our batters find tough to bat against. This was the plan, which worked later (to get him out)."
Also Read | 'Yeh uska pehla Test tha kya?': Ravindra Jadeja's approach at Lord's draws criticism from across the border
Meanwhile, the outcome at Lord's helped England regain the advantage in the five-match series. The hosts lead by 2-1 - winning the series opener at Headingley, Leeds. India despite resting Bumrah, team's premier pacer, managed to beat England by 336 runs at Edgbaston, Birmingham - marking their first Test win at the venue. The next match will be played at Manchester from July 23 - a venue where India are yet to win a Test.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
