Cricket, a sport deeply rooted in tradition and superstition, witnessed a fascinating moment on Day 3 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Australian pacer Mitchell Starc performed an unusual ritual, flipping the bails off the stumps at the end of his spell. This peculiar yet widely practiced superstition among bowlers is believed to bring luck and spark breakthroughs on the field.

The intriguing bail-flipping ritual leads to Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal

Starc performed the renowned ritual of flipping the bails off the stumps at the end of his over, a moment that coincided with Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja preparing to face the next over bowled by Australia’s right-arm off-spinner Nathan Lyon as in the 65th over of India’s innings, Lyon produced a dramatic dismissal, trapping Jadeja leg-before-wicket (LBW). Lyon’s slider, delivered on a good length, skidded sharply from outside off, deceiving Jadeja’s attempt to work it across the line. Struck on the back leg, Jadeja sought a review after consulting his partner, all-rounder Nitish Reddy. However, the ball-tracking technology confirmed the umpire’s call, showing the delivery clipping the top of middle and off stumps. Struggling to read Lyon’s sharp spin, Jadeja was eventually outmaneuvered by the bowler’s skill and precision.

Here is the video:

#Australia follows the bail swapping ritual, and it pays off instantly! 🫣#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 4th Test, Day 3 | LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/1mAPvyNY6w

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 28, 2024

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Nitish Reddy and Washington Sundar lead the fightback

Despite the early loss of Jadeja, India found a steadying force in Reddy and bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. At the end of the day, India’s scoreboard read 358/9, with Reddy leading the charge through an impressive century (105 off 176 balls), studded with 10 fours and a six. Sundar also played a brilliant supporting role, scoring 50 off 162 balls. The duo added 127 runs for the eighth wicket, showcasing determination and skill, keeping India’s hopes alive as they trailed Australia by 116 runs.

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