November 19, 2024: The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia promises to be a thrilling contest, with all eyes on Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead. As the two teams gear up for a high-stakes series, Australia’s top batsmen have shared their thoughts on what makes Bumrah such a challenging and dangerous bowler.
Steve Smith’s Take on Bumrah:
Steve Smith, one of Australia’s most accomplished batsmen, described Bumrah’s bowling as “awkward,” citing his unique action and rhythm as factors that make him tough to face. Smith admitted that even after playing against Bumrah numerous times, it still takes him “a couple of balls” to adjust to Bumrah’s unusual rhythm. This ability to disrupt a batter’s timing and rhythm is part of what makes Bumrah so lethal.
Travis Head’s Struggles:
Travis Head went a step further, describing facing Bumrah in a single word: “Impossible.” He explained that Bumrah always seems “one step ahead” of the batter, making it incredibly difficult to outthink or outplay him. Head also highlighted Bumrah’s consistent ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, calling him India’s “X-factor.” Bumrah’s knack for stepping up when it matters most makes him an invaluable asset for India, particularly in big moments.
Usman Khawaja’s Perspective:
Usman Khawaja also shared his experience of facing Bumrah, recalling his initial reaction when encountering the pacer for the first time: “Oh where did that come from?” He noted that Bumrah’s ball comes through quicker than expected due to his unique bowling action, which can be compared to that of Mitchell Johnson. The unpredictability of his action, along with the way the ball “gets to you quicker” without you being able to pick it up, makes Bumrah a tough proposition for any batter.
Bumrah’s Success in Australia:
Bumrah’s record in Australia speaks volumes about his ability to perform in challenging conditions. In his two previous tours to Australia, he has taken 32 wickets at an impressive average of 21.25. His standout performance came during the 2018 Boxing Day Test at Melbourne, where he delivered a match-winning spell of 6-33. Only two visiting bowlers in the post-20th century era—Richard Hadlee and Curtly Ambrose—have taken more wickets in Australia at a lower average than Bumrah.
Bumrah vs. Australia’s Top Batsmen:
Looking at Bumrah’s past record against some of Australia’s key batters, it’s clear that he has consistently troubled them:
- Usman Khawaja: 2 wickets at an average of 67.50
- Steve Smith: 3 wickets at an average of 56.67
- Marnus Labuschagne: 2 wickets at 53.50
- Alex Carey: 2 wickets at 45.50
- Mitchell Marsh: 2 wickets at 30.00
- Travis Head: 4 wickets at 28.50
The Border-Gavaskar Series Schedule:
The series kicks off on November 22 with the first Test in Perth, followed by a day-night encounter in Adelaide from December 6 to 10. The third Test will take place in Brisbane from December 14 to 18, with the Boxing Day Test at the MCG scheduled from December 26 to 30. The series will conclude at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7, ensuring an exciting finish to a high-profile series.
India’s Squad:
India’s squad features some of the best players in the world, including captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. The team is packed with match-winners, and Bumrah will be at the center of their attack.
Australia’s Squad for the First Test:
Australia will be led by Pat Cummins, with other key players like Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, and Nathan Lyon available for the crucial Test matches. With the pace attack featuring Cummins, Scott Boland, and Mitchell Starc, it promises to be a fiery contest between the two sides.
Both teams have formidable squads, but all eyes will undoubtedly be on Bumrah as he looks to add another chapter to his growing legend in world cricket.
