Chasing a challenging 340 to win the fourth Test in Melbourne, India were struggling at 59/3 on the final day when a ‘bail switch‘ moment led to a conversation between Mitchell Starc and Yashasvi Jaiswal, which was caught on the stump microphone.
Walking back to his mark, the Australian pacer switched the bails at the non-striker’s end, but the Indian opener switched those back, much to the amusement of Starc.
Starc asked Jaiswal: “Superstition? What are you trying there?” and the 21-year-old replied, “I believe in myself, that’s why I am here.”
“So what are you changing that for, if not your superstition?” Starc continued.
“I am just enjoying this moment in my life,” Jaiswal shot back.
India bowled out Australia for 234 in their second innings after Jasprit Bumrah completed his third five-for of the series with the last wicket of Nathan Lyon in the first over of the final morning at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
In response, India lost three quick wickets as Rohit Sharma (9), KL Rahul (0) and Virat Kohli (5) failed to deliver.
But Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant dug in to forge a partnership until a rush of blood from Pant (30) in the final session led to his dismissal against part-time spinner Travis Head.
Fighting to force a draw, India were 121 for 4 when this report was published, with Ravindra Jadeja coming in to join Jaiswal (69*).
