Jasprit Bumrah rues unfortunate no-ball drama, but says 'fate' denied Harry Brook a century: 'It had decided 99'

By Admin

23 Jun, 2025

In an enthralling Day 3 of the first Test between India and England at Leeds, Jasprit Bumrah’s remarkable performance with the ball was overshadowed by a dramatic moment that left English batter Harry Brook stranded one short of a well-deserved century. India’s pace spearhead, who picked up five wickets for just 83 runs in 24.4 overs, shared his thoughts on Brook’s near-miss and the role ‘fate’ played in the unfolding drama.

Brook’s Grit and Near Glory

Harry Brook showcased excellent temperament and aggression throughout his innings. His 99-run knock was instrumental in pushing England to a strong total of 465, in reply to India’s first-innings score of 471. The right-hander opened Day 3 with flair, smashing a six off Prasidh Krishna and then caressing a brilliant four through the covers off Bumrah.

However, just as he neared what would have been his ninth Test century and only his second on home soil, Brook fell victim to Krishna’s short delivery, pulling it straight into the hands of Shardul Thakur in the deep. It was an anticlimactic end to a gritty knock, and even more painful given the drama that preceded it.

A Twist of Fate   The No-Ball Lifeline

Brook had a lucky escape on Day 2 when he was caught off a mistimed hook shot against Bumrah before he had scored. Much to India's disappointment, Bumrah had overstepped, gifting Brook a lifeline that could have cost India dearly.

Reflecting on that moment, Bumrah said, “I think fate had decided on 99 for him, because he got dropped a few times after (the no-ball) as well.” Brook was dropped twice more   once on 46 and then on 82, with Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal both failing to grab crucial chances.

Bumrah’s Brilliance

Despite that no-ball blemish, Bumrah was in red-hot form throughout the day. He dismantled the English lineup with precision and consistency, finishing with five wickets that included five maiden overs. His spells featured intense battles, especially with Brook, and he constantly kept the English batter guessing.

Bumrah also acknowledged Brook’s quality, saying, “Full credit, he played really well. He assessed the conditions well, he fancies his game and plays an aggressive style of cricket… We’ll try to have better plans in the next innings.”

The Match So Far

At Stumps on Day 3, India had reached 90/2 in their second innings, establishing a lead of 96 runs. With the game finely balanced, both teams are eyeing key moments to take control heading into the final days.

This Test continues to serve fans with top-class cricket and intense individual rivalries   none more compelling than Bumrah vs Brook, a duel that promises more fireworks in the days ahead.