As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australian batting maestro Steve Smith has heaped praise on Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah, calling him “arguably the best fast bowler across all formats.” This accolade comes just weeks before the series kicks off in Perth on November 22, 2024
SOURCE : ZEE
In a recent interview with Star Sports, Smith highlighted Bumrah’s exceptional skills and versatility. “He’s a wonderful bowler, whether I face him with the new ball, a slightly older ball, or even the old ball. His skills are exceptional across all situations. He’s arguably the best fast bowler across formats, and facing him is always going to be a challenge,” Smith remarked
Source:- bbc news
Smith’s comments have added to the excitement surrounding the upcoming series, which promises to be a thrilling contest between two cricketing powerhouses. Bumrah’s ability to adapt and excel in all three formats of the game has made him a standout performer on the international stag
Since making his Test debut in January 2018, Bumrah has been a revelation for India. In 37 Test matches, he has taken 164 wickets at an impressive average of 20.514. His performances in overseas conditions, particularly in Australia, have been instrumental in India’s recent successes Down Under. Bumrah’s ability to generate pace and movement, coupled with his pinpoint accuracy, makes him a formidable opponent for any batting lineup.
Bumrah’s recent exploits include a remarkable five-wicket haul against Bangladesh in the opening Test of the ongoing series, further cementing his status as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world. His consistency and ability to deliver match-winning performances have made him a key player for India in all formats of the game.
The rivalry between Smith and Bumrah is set to be one of the highlights of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In their previous encounters, Bumrah has bowled 114 deliveries to Smith in five Test innings, dismissing him once and conceding 52 runs. This battle between one of the world’s best batsmen and one of the finest fast bowlers is eagerly anticipated by cricket fans around the globe.
Smith, who has been promoted up the batting order following David Warner’s retirement, will be crucial to Australia’s chances in the series. The 35-year-old is on the verge of crossing the 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket, having amassed 9,685 runs so far. His ability to tackle Bumrah’s pace and skill will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the series.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy holds significant importance for both teams. India, currently leading the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, will be aiming for their third consecutive series win in Australia. Bumrah’s role will be pivotal in achieving this feat, as his performances with the ball could dictate the series’ direction.
For Australia, the series presents an opportunity to reclaim the trophy and assert their dominance on home soil. Smith’s endorsement of Bumrah’s abilities underscores the respect and recognition the Indian pacer commands in the cricketing fraternity.
As the countdown to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins, the cricketing world is abuzz with anticipation. The series promises to be a showcase of high-quality cricket, with both teams boasting world-class talent. Bumrah’s duel with Smith is just one of the many intriguing subplots that will unfold over the course of the five-match series.
With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect a fiercely contested battle between two of the best teams in the world. As Smith aptly put it, facing Bumrah will be a challenge, but it’s one that he and the Australian team are ready to embrace.
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