Unveiling the Strategy: Travis Head shares his secret to handling India's Jasprit Bumrah

Head continued his impressive form from the Adelaide Test, scoring his second consecutive century. He scored 152 off 160 balls, including 18 boundaries, and was in complete control throughout his innings. Head's partnership of 241 runs with Steve Smith was vital for the team's fourth-wicket stand. In his post-match interview, Head shared his strategy against the in-form bowler Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing the importance of reacting correctly to Bumrah's deliveries. He highlighted the significance of being proactive with his forward defense against the talented pacer.

“He (Jasprit Bumrah) goes for the base of the stumps early. But I think it's about reacting. He has a good bouncer. He's got brilliant wicket-taking balls, for me it is about being positive against him. Doesn't mean that I need to score runs against him, but more about being proactive with my forward defense,” he said.

It was Bumrah, who came to India’s rescue to break the partnership, dismissing both Head and Smith in quick succession. Bumrah bagged another five-wicket haul, scalping the wickets of Usman Khawaja (21), Nathan McSweeney (9), Smith (101), Head (152) and Mitchell Marsh (5). Smith also got a ton, smacking 101 off 190 balls, including 12 fours.

In the second Test in Adelaide, Head came to Australia’s rescue with a sensational century, registering 140 off 141 balls. His knock was key as Australia levelled the series at 1-1.

Speaking on his side’s chances for the WTC Final, he said, “The top-6 (batting) is setting up nicely, hopeful of doing well in Sri Lanka and getting into the WTC final. Very pleased for Smudge, he has had a lot against him and it's nice to see him get back to his best form.”