The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia is being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. January 7 has become a memorable day for Navdeep Saini, because today his years old wish has been fulfilled.
Bumrah cheered up
Navdeep Saini made his Test debut through this match. Jasprit Bumrah gave him a test cap number 299 before the match and said three things,
1 ‘It is a matter of great pride that you are getting a chance to play Test matches.’
2- ‘It is found after a lot of hard work.’
3- ‘You are entitled to it.’
Congratulations @ navdeepsaini96. He realises his dream of playing Test cricket for #TeamIndia today. A proud holder of 🧢 299 and he receives it from @ Jaspritbumrah93. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zxa5LGJEen
– BCCI (@BCCI) January 6, 2021
Chance found in place of Umesh
Umesh Yadav was injured while throwing his fourth over in Australia’s second innings in the Melbourne Test. Navdeep has got a chance in place of Umesh.
Shardul-Natarajan was also a contender
Shardul Thakur was also a contender to replace Navdeep in the playing XI, while T Natarajan was also included in the Test squad but the selection committee on tour preferred Delhi’s 28-year-old fast bowler Navdeep Saini.
Navdeep’s debut in cricket
Born in Karnal, Haryana, this fast bowler made his debut in international cricket in August 2019 and has played 7 ODIs and 10 T20 Internationals. Navdeep has 13 wickets in T20 International and 6 wickets in ODIs.