Long before he became the backbone of India’s pace attack, Jasprit Bumrah had already made a strong impression on Yuvraj Singh. The former all-rounder recently recalled a memorable net session when a 16-year-old Bumrah left him struggling with sheer pace while he was attempting a comeback after battling cancer.

Speaking to Michael Vaughan, Yuvraj shared how difficult it was to face the young pacer at that stage. “When I was trying to come back, and he was 16 years old, he was bowling really quick in the nets,” he said. Still regaining rhythm and fitness, Yuvraj admitted he was overwhelmed by Bumrah’s intensity. “I was like, ‘I want this kid out of the nets, stop bowling to me,’” he added, highlighting just how challenging the experience was.

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Yuvraj further explained that Bumrah’s unique action made things even tougher. “He had a long run-up and didn’t have many skills back then, but he was extremely quick,” he noted. The awkward bounce, in particular, stood out. “With his action, he had that deceptive bounce — it kept getting onto your ribs all the time,” he said.

From those early days, Bumrah has evolved into one of the most complete fast bowlers in world cricket. His recent performances, including a key role in India’s T20 World Cup success, underline his consistency and match-winning ability.

Yuvraj, the 2011 ODI World Cup Player of the Tournament, believes Bumrah is currently the best fast bowler in the game. “Batsmen are not going after him,” he observed, pointing out the fear factor Bumrah brings.

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He added that even when batters try to attack, Bumrah’s variations and deceptive action make him incredibly difficult to read. Now 32, Bumrah remains vital to India’s success and is currently representing the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026.