Sydney: Former Australian pacer Glenn McGrath has highlighted the critical role Jasprit Bumrah plays in Team India, stating that without him, the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series might have been more one-sided.
Speaking reporters ahead of the upcoming Test series finale here on Wednesday, McGrath said, "To me, Jasprit Bumrah is class, there’s no doubt about it. He’s unique. He has an action you wouldn’t teach a young bowler, but he’s found a way to adapt it. He’s absolutely incredible. The way he powers through those last few steps and delivers with such energy is amazing."
Highlighting Bumrah’s ability to manage physical challenges, McGrath noted, "He has a bit of hyperextension, like I used to have, and he’s managing it brilliantly. His control of the ball, both ways, is extraordinary."
The Australia legend also expressed admiration for Bumrah’s growth as a player. "His stats speak for themselves, and I’m a massive fan of Bumrah. I met him when he was younger, and what he has grown into is unbelievable. He’s been a massive part of the India team. Without him, this series might be a little more one-sided."
Reflecting on the iconic Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, McGrath described the match as a testament to the timeless appeal of Test cricket.
"The cricket we saw in Melbourne was incredible. To have a Test match go for five full days with Australia winning in the last session, and over 370,000 fans turning up, it’s just amazing," he said. "To me, that shows Test cricket is still the ultimate format. The Boxing Day Test is proof that Test cricket is alive and well, and I hope this series continues to demonstrate that."
McGrath also commended India’s unrelenting passion for cricket. "India, with its 1.4 billion people, has an incredible passion for cricket. The game is part of their culture. Anywhere you find a spare patch of land, you’ll see kids playing cricket," he remarked.
Having worked with the McGrath Foundation in India for over a decade, McGrath appreciated the nation’s talent pool. "Prasidh Krishna, who is in the squad, is a promising young bowler with a bright future ahead of him. The young cricketers coming through in India, like Jaiswal, show a fearless attitude. They go out there and play without fear, which is something I truly admire," he said.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Test match, McGrath stressed its importance for Australia. "This Test match is massive. Australia hasn’t beaten India in the last two series, even at home, a rarity. Australia will want to win this final Test. The absence of Josh Hazelwood was a blow, but Scott Boland stepped in and performed brilliantly," he said.
McGrath expressed hope for Mitchell Starc’s participation. "Hopefully, Mitchell Starc is fit to play because when he’s on fire, he’s as good as anyone in the world. Fingers crossed that he can contribute to the game," McGrath concluded.
