Indian skipper Virat Kohli feels that Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in the first Test of the three-match series against South Africa was influenced by his preparations and his ability to “bowl a really heavy ball”.

Rohit Sharma was preferred over deputy skipper Ajinkya Rahane for the no.5 position. Bumrah and all-rounder Hardik Pandya have included ahead of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav. Ishant’s exclusion was also surprising, given that his good height can help generate more bounce on the pitch.

Speaking more about Bumrah’s selection, Kohli said, “Jasprit Bumrah is making his Test debut. He has come a long way and he has done really well in limited-overs cricket. He is bowling a really heavy ball and he has been the most impressive seamer here in our preparations.”

He further added, “We are very excited to have him start his Test career today and wish him all the best.” Bumrah is the number three and number four-ranked bowler in ODIs and T20Is respectively.

Jasprit brings variety to the Indian pace attack and as was seen in a T20 against England last year, in which he defended 8 runs in the final over. Plus, he can bowl at a higher pace than the other two frontline seamers, Bhuvneshwar and Shami.