'Infectious' Kohli leads from the front – Bumrah
Kohli's magnificent 123 helped India to a total of 283 at the Perth International Stadium before Australia ended the day at 132/4, stretching their lead to 175.
"He is infectious. We were in a little bit of trouble at the start of the innings, but he carried the innings with his knock," said Bumrah, who put the pressure on the Australia top-order with a fiery opening spell, picking up the wicket of Marcus Harris in the final session of the day.
Captain Kohli notches his 25th Test ton. One of the finest from King Kohli 👑😎👌🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LisPQ6pobc
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 16, 2018
"He is an inspiring leader who leads from the front. It is a great thing for our team and I hope it continues for a long time."
The fast-bowler feels that the surface in Perth has hardened up due to the warm conditions, thus becoming quicker over the course of the match.
"The first session of the first day was the best time to bat because we thought that the wicket was green, but it wasn't doing much," he pointed out.
Another fascinating day of Test cricket! Australia close day three in Perth on 132/4 in their second innings, with a lead of 175 runs over India after the visitors were dismissed for 283. #AUSvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/F3zt6p9jXV
— ICC (@ICC) December 16, 2018
"After that, it hardened up because there was so much heat, that's when the bounce increased and the wicket fastened up. Now we have realised what's happening and we are much clearer in the second innings."
Australia have their noses slightly ahead at this point in the game, but Bumrah believes that early wickets on the fourth morning will help the visitors take ascendancy in the match.
"Tomorrow the first session will be very important. We want to take early wickets to reduce their total as much as possible so that it's easier for us to chase it in the fourth innings," he added.