Cheteshwar Pujara fondly recalls his early impressions of Jasprit Bumrah, labeling the Indian pacer as a “wildcard” destined for long-term success in international cricket.
The Rise of a Unique Talent
Pujara first encountered Jasprit Bumrah in a club match, long before his IPL fame or international debut. Bumrah’s unconventional bowling action immediately stood out, prompting questions about his effectiveness in the longer format of Test cricket.
Despite initial doubts, Bumrah’s Test debut in South Africa in 2018 quickly proved his critics wrong. Pujara, watching from first slip, noted how Bumrah, though taking only four wickets, answered all concerns about his ability to swing the red ball and maintain consistency in Tests. His pace, Pujara observed, was even quicker than Mohammed Shami’s.
Mastering the Overseas Challenge
According to Pujara, Bumrah truly elevated his game during India’s 2018 tour of England. Using the Dukes ball for the first time, Bumrah’s swing became remarkably unreadable for English batters. Pujara highlighted a memorable hooping inswinger to Keaton Jennings, which left the batsman plumb LBW without playing a shot.
This tour solidified Bumrah’s status as a vital asset for India. Pujara noted that by the time they went to Australia later that winter, they realized Bumrah was indeed their “wildcard” and instrumental in India’s historic series victory Down Under.
A Record-Breaker in the Making
Bumrah’s knack for taking wickets away from home is well-documented. He recently surpassed Kapil Dev’s record for the most five-wicket hauls by an Indian bowler in overseas Tests, achieving his 13th in just 35 overseas matches.
In comparison, Kapil Dev reached 12 five-fors in 66 away Tests. Bumrah, with 49 wickets in 11 Tests in England, is also nearing Wasim Akram’s record of 53 wickets for an Asian bowler in England.
More Than Just Pace and Swing
Pujara emphasized that Bumrah’s brilliance extends beyond his bowling skills; he possesses an exceptional cricketing mind. Unlike most fast bowlers who relax off the field, Bumrah remains keenly observing the game from the dressing room.
He constantly analyzes situations, offering insights on both his team’s batters and the opposition. This sharp analytical ability, honed during his time in the IPL working with legends like Lasith Malinga, makes him a master strategist capable of outsmarting batsmen. Pujara even noted that Bumrah was considered for captaincy before Shubman Gill.
The Ultimate Team Player
Pujara shared a touching anecdote from the 2018 England tour in Southampton. Bumrah, coming in at number 11, helped Pujara reach his century, contributing 46 runs for the last wicket. Despite Pujara’s initial doubts about completing his hundred, Bumrah’s competitive spirit and assurance saw them through.
This moment perfectly encapsulates Bumrah’s dedication and his unwavering belief in himself and his teammates, making him the perfect team man.
- Jasprit Bumrah was identified early as India’s “wildcard” by Cheteshwar Pujara.
- His unique action and ability to swing the red ball in overseas conditions quickly silenced initial doubts.
- Bumrah holds the record for the most overseas Test five-wicket hauls by an Indian bowler.
- He possesses a brilliant cricketing brain, constantly analyzing the game and outsmarting batters.
- Bumrah is a highly competitive and supportive team player, always striving for collective success.
Jasprit Bumrah’s journey from a unique-action bowler to a record-breaking, strategic pacer highlights his immense talent and dedication, making him an invaluable asset to the Indian cricket team.
