'Can play a big role for India in the series' - Pat Cummins on Jasprit Bumrah ahead of BGT 2024-25
Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is all set to begin on November 22, with the first Test being held in Perth.
Australian skipper Pat Cummins has revealed that ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah will play a crucial role in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Cummins admitted about the Indian pacer's impressive track record in Australian conditions ahead of the series opener in Perth on November 22.
With 32 wickets from just seven Test matches Down Under, including a stellar performance as the leading wicket-taker in the 2018-19 series with 21 scalps, the Indian fast bowler has consistently troubled Australian batters on their home turf.
"I am a big fan of Bumrah. He is a fantastic bowler and can play a big role for India in the series. He's one of the guys who has played a lot of cricket in Australia," Cummins said in a media conference.
It's going to feel a bit different without Cheteshwar Pujara: Pat Cummins
India enters the contest without two of their experienced players, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, as the team has shown optimism towards young players. Cummins also mentioned the Men in Blue coming to Australia without two of their best players.
"They (Rahane and Pujara) both scored some really important innings. It was always great playing against Pujara. He was one of those guys who never really felt like he was getting away from you. But then he would bat, and bat, and bat, and bat. "I always really enjoyed the contest against him. Some days he won, other days I won. So, it's going to feel a bit different without him," Cummins added.
The series could see a battle between the two premier fast bowlers, as Bumrah might lead the side if regular skipper Rohit Sharma misses out on the first Test due to paternity leave. India's preparation for the series is already underway at the iconic WACA in Perth, where the first Test will be played.
The visitors will look to continue their dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, having won the last two series in Australia. Meanwhile, Cummins, in his first home series as captain against India, will be confident to lead Australia to their first series victory against India in a decade.
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