How Travis Head's bowling boosted over-rate of Australia at MCG
What's the story
Despite not contributing with the bat, Travis Head played a crucial role in Australia's victory over India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
He dismissed Rishabh Pant, paving the way for Australia's final-session surge. However, as revealed by captain Pat Cummins, Head was primarily utilized to enhance the team's over rate.
This strategy was employed due to slow over rates potentially leading to points deductions in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
Tactical move
Head and Lyon's quick overs boost Australia's performance
Head and Nathan Lyon played a crucial role in pushing Australia's performance after tea on Day 5.
The duo bowled through their overs quickly, with Head managing to get Pant out.
This dismissal changed the momentum as Australia took seven wickets across 21 overs, winning on the fifth day.
However, despite the win, it is still unclear if Australia caught up with the required over-rate.
Captain's commendation
Cummins praises Head's contribution
Cummins lauded Head's contribution during the presentation, saying, "He's got a bit of a Midas touch."
He also credited the coach for getting Head into play and noted that their strategy was partly because they were behind on the over rate.
Despite his modest batting performance in this Test (0 and 1), Head said he was happy with his important role in Australia's win.
Post-match reflections
Head reflects on his role and the team's strategy
Reflecting on his role, Head said, "I've had four-and-a-half days off, didn't feature, thought I'd watch the boys bat this week."
He added it was nice to contribute despite not being too pleased about bowling.
He praised the team's relaxed approach and their ability to execute plans devised by Cummins and head coach Andrew McDonald.
Strategy humor
Head jokes about his bowling strategy against Pant
When asked about his plan for Pant, Head jokingly said, "Bowl a rank [long hop] and have everyone on the fence. I just threw them down there, see what happens and it turned our way."
This jovial remark is a testament to the unpredictable nature of cricket and how much luck can influence the result of a match.