Australian batsman Travis Head showers praise on Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah on the eve of the highly-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He commends Bumrah as India’s “X-factor” who can always deliver regardless of the format. “Bumrah has been a linchpin of the Indian bowling unit. His record in Test cricket is simply outstanding with 173 wickets in just 40 matches at an enviable average of 20.57.”.
Bumrah’s performance Down Under has been equally brilliant. In seven Test matches in Australia, he has scalped 32 wickets at an impressive average of 21.25, further cementing his reputation as being among the most hazardous bowlers on Australian turf. Rohit Sharma has missed the first match of the series in Perth due to parental duties, and Bumrah is likely to be the spearhead of the Indian team. He is a threat, not only as a leader but also in bowling, according to Head.
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“Facing Bumrah is almost impossible. You feel like you’re trying to stay one step ahead, but he’s always a step further. In any format, he’s incredible. He’s their X-factor, the guy they turn to in critical moments, and more often than not, he delivers. As a batter, you know you’ve got your work cut out against him. He’s going to be a massive challenge this summer,” Travis Head told Fox Cricket.
Australian opener Usman Khawaja too has shared his experience of facing Bumrah for the first time. He cited Bumrah’s unusual action, which generates a pace that is well past expectations; he compared Bumrah to the intimidating Mitchell Johnson.
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“The first time I faced Bumrah, I thought, ‘Where did that come from?’ His awkward action makes the ball feel quicker than it is. Like Mitchell Johnson, Bumrah’s delivery is hard to pick because his arms and action are so unconventional. It’s challenging for any batter to adjust,” Khawaja added.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy draws closer, it’s sure that form and skill brought by Bumrah will heighten the excitement of the series.
