Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar performance in the ongoing Test series against Australia has reaffirmed his status as the lynchpin of India’s pace attack. With a remarkable tally of 18 wickets by the end of the first innings in the third Test at Gabba, Bumrah’s contributions have been instrumental in keeping India competitive. In stark contrast, the remaining Indian seamers have collectively managed 19 wickets in the series, underscoring Bumrah’s dominance with the ball.
At the Gabba, Bumrah’s impact was particularly striking. His incisive bowling saw him dismiss Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney with the new ball. Later, with the second new ball in hand, he accounted for the prized scalps of Steven Smith, Travis Head, and Mitchell Marsh, completing a five-wicket haul. India’s sixth wicket came courtesy of Nitish Reddy, who dismissed Marnus Labuschagne with a wide half-volley. However, the Australian batters appeared more comfortable during Bumrah’s spells off the field, showcasing the gap in intensity without his presence.
Team First: Bumrah’s Call for Unity
Despite his individual brilliance, Bumrah emphasized the importance of collective growth within the bowling unit, which is navigating a transitional phase. “We don’t point fingers at each other as a team,” Bumrah said at the end of Day 3. “This is a journey. We are a new bowling group, and everyone is learning. It’s about helping each other improve.”
Bumrah dismissed any notion of feeling burdened by his central role, emphasizing the team’s shared responsibility. “I don’t see it as me having to do everything. This is a process where everyone learns and gets better. It’s about discovering your own game and finding ways to contribute,” he added.
Growing Pains for India’s Young Pacers
India’s pace attack has been a work in progress during this series. Harshit Rana, who debuted in Perth and impressed with his raw pace, struggled to contain Travis Head’s aggressive batting in the second Test at Adelaide. In the third Test, Akash Deep was given an opportunity in just his sixth Test match. Although the pacer bowled with intent and beat the bat on several occasions, he managed to claim only one wicket in the first innings.
Bumrah Stands by Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj, the second-most experienced fast bowler in the squad, has had an up-and-down series. Bumrah, however, remains supportive and confident in Siraj’s potential. “We talk often. Siraj has bowled well, but in this game, he’s been managing a niggle. Despite that, he has shown a fighter’s spirit, which is something the entire team admires,” Bumrah said.
He also encouraged Siraj to stay positive despite the challenges. “Some days, wickets come your way, and on other days, they don’t. I’ve told him this before. He’s in a good space mentally, and his attitude is exceptional,” Bumrah stated, applauding his teammate’s resilience.
Looking Ahead
India’s bowling unit may be going through a transitional phase, but under Bumrah’s leadership, the future looks promising. His efforts to guide and mentor the younger bowlers while leading by example have reinforced the team’s focus on long-term growth over immediate results. As the series unfolds, India will hope for consistent contributions from the entire attack to complement Bumrah’s brilliance.
