NEWS
Follow UsWhile the Indian team struggled to cope with the Australian condition, trailing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 1-2 ahead of the fifth and final Test of the series in Sydney, there has been an impending sense of inevitability about it. One bright spot for India has been Jasprit Bumrah, who is by far the best bowler in the series, scalping 30 wickets in four games at an average of 12.83.
The numbers are seriously impressive, but what matters more is the gaiety that he brought to the table with his performances. Many a time in the series, he single-handedly turned the fortunes around. Former Australian player and coach, Darren Lehmann is very impressed with him, rating the Indian as best bowler he has ever seen live.
“I presume he (Bumrah) is the next captain when Rohit finishes. He did a really good job in Perth. He is the best bowler I have ever seen live. I have seen Wasim Akram, Glenn McGrath and all, but I have not seen a bowler have impact like him in a single series like Jasprit Bumrah has since Mitchell Johnson in 2013-14 Ashes win,” Lehmann said to PTI.
“This is very similar as Bumrah already has 30 wickets. He has been outstanding to watch. He will do well when he gets a chance to lead India,” he added.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul have done well in the series to impress the selectors of Indian cricket’s future. Lehmann said India don’t have to worry about their future after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli pave the way.
“Look, whenever they decide to give it away, and whatever happens in the next few days, they have been great players for India over a long period of time,” he said.
“Now, actually, we see younger players starting to step up for India and play well at the next level. There is so much depth in Indian cricket I won’t worry too much. Whenever these two guys decide to retire, there are so many talented youngsters that Indian cricket will be in good stead,” Lehmann added.
