The former West Indies cricketer Michael Holding, while commentating during the Test series between India and England said that he does not think seamer Jasprit Bumrah is impressive with the new ball. Even after Bumrah went on to claim a five-wicket haul in the second innings of the third Test against England to help India to a 203-run victory at Trent Bridge, the 64-year old stressed he still will not use Bumrah as an opening bowler.
“I would still not have him as my opening bowler. Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami do a bit more with the brand new ball and they will remain my opening bowlers in Bhuveneshwar’s absence.”
“What I have seen is he can get the ball to straighten from wide of the crease and is more effective with the slightly older ball,” he said.
“What you have to remember is that in England, with so much assistance from both pitch and atmosphere for the quick bowlers, Bumrah will get the odd ball to straighten on the right-handers’ off-stump, although his action doesn’t enhance his ability to do so. The same delivery in South Africa, Australia, etc would not straighten as it can tend to do in England. He has pace, though, which is a welcome asset that cannot be bought,” he added.
With the series at 2-1, India and England will play the 4th Test match of the 5-match series from Thursday, next week in Southampton.
