CWC 2023: “Not only has he got the skills…,” Shastri hails Bumrah after World Cup heroics against Pakistan

Bumrah put on a fast bowling exhibition against Pakistan in Ahmedabad.

By Salman Anjum - 15 Oct, 2023

Jasprit Bumrah put on a fast bowling exhibition in India’s seven-wicket win over Pakistan during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 match at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Saturday (October 14).

The right-arm quick returned with the figures of 2 for 19 in his seven overs, helping India bundle out Pakistan for a below-par 191 in 42.5 overs. Mohammad Rizwan (49) and Shadab Khan (2) were his victims.

While Bumrah cleaned up Rizwan with an off-cutter, he bowled a peach of a delivery to hit the top of Shadab’s off stump.

After the game, former India head coach Ravi Shastri heaped praise on Jasprit Bumrah's determination, adaptability and game-reading prowess.

"Even now, Jasprit Bumrah doesn't leave the bowling coaches. He will not leave the analysts, he go watch everything and he wants to improve, that's the hunger and that's why he is where he is today. He wants to improve. Another very interesting thing, he said. He said I watched the Giants and he said I have a good slow ball and I think this might be a good match-up to break the rhythm of a player like Rizwan who plays on the move and plays away from his body at times," Shastri said while speaking on Star Sports.

"One of his greatest strengths is his ability to read opponents, to read batsmen, adapt to the conditions and you know that he brought back his length within and over, within an over, he didn't have a slip in place, you know. So he was very clear that he had to attack the stumps, bowl back of the length and not give the batsman any room, and then use the subtle variations where he gets his fingers across the sea and gets the go. It's smart thinking. He's risen to the top that quickly just for nothing. You know, he's a smart operator. Not only has he got the skills, he's got the mindset here to walk on," he added.

With this victory, India kept their World Cup winning streak against Pakistan intact as they extended the lead to 8-0.

The Men in Blue will next face Bangladesh in Pune on Thursday (October 19).

By Salman Anjum - 15 Oct, 2023

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