NEW DELHI: Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath has heaped praise on Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, crediting him for ensuring the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains competitive. With India trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, Bumrah has been a standout performer, claiming 30 wickets at an average of less than 13 despite India’s underwhelming batting performances.
“He has been a massive part of the Indian team, and without him, the series might have been more one-sided.What he does is special,” McGrath said during a cancer awareness event hosted by his foundation.
The 54-year-old former pacer, who claimed 563 Test wickets during his illustrious career, lauded Bumrah’s adaptability and control. “Terrific young guy who has found a way to adapt. Absolutely incredible how he powers into bowl the last few steps,” McGrath remarked, marveling at the Indian pacer’s unique short run-up.
McGrath also noted an uncanny similarity between himself and Bumrah, pointing to their hyper-extended bowling arms, which allow them to release the ball closer to the batter. “He’s got a little bit of hyper-extension, which I used to have as well. He has incredible control both ways, and they are managing him well. I am a massive fan of Jasprit,” McGrath added.
The Australian legend also praised the depth of talent in Indian cricket, emphasizing the role of institutions like the MRF Pace Foundation, where he has been a mentor. Highlighting the potential of fast bowler Prasidh Krishna and batter Yashasvi Jaiswal, McGrath said, “India, with 1.4 billion people, has an absolute passion for cricket. What’s good about these young players is they are fearless.”
McGrath was delighted by the massive turnout during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, which saw a crowd of 370,000 fans across five days. He said the event proved the enduring appeal of Test cricket. “The cricket in Melbourne was amazing, lasting all five days with Australia getting over the line in the final session. Test cricket is still the ultimate.”
As for the final Test of the series, starting Friday, McGrath expressed optimism about Mitchell Starc’s fitness but acknowledged that the team might hesitate to risk him. “It depends on the state of the Test series. This is a massive game. Australia haven’t beaten India in the last two [Border-Gavaskar] series, and that is unheard of. Mitch will do anything possible to play,” McGrath said.
