NEW DELHI: In the spotlight on spinners, pacer
Jasprit Bumrah
made a significant impact on Saturday by claiming two crucial wickets that allowed India to stay competitive against England on the third day of the first Test in Hyderabad.
Demonstrating a remarkable display of skill and the ability to generate reverse swing, Bumrah successfully dismissed
Ben Duckett
and
Joe Root
during the middle session of the day.
India's bowling coach
Paras Mhambrey
was stating the evident truth when he labelled Bumrah as an all-weather bowler.
"Bumrah was bowling very well and was moving the ball both ways. That's the quality he has. He is a special bowler and we have seen what he can do in overseas conditions.
He has not played much (Test) cricket in India. Every time he turns up, he gives his best. It's pure skills," he said.
Mhambrey, however, pointed out that Bumrah's influence extends beyond the field to the dressing room, where he serves as one of the primary strategic thinkers.
"The dressing room conversations he has, the energy he brings on to the field...he is a part of the discussion when the captain and support staff are around, he's right there with all suggestions," said Mhambrey.
Root expressed great admiration for Bumrah's impressive skill sets, emphasising that his dismissal marked a significant moment in the context of the ongoing
Test match
.
"It's what you'd expect from a Test match, and a big moment in the game. I was disappointed not to get through it (Bumrah's spell). You know that for four or five overs he will charge in and throw everything at us.
So, you recognise that as a big moment in the game. One of my frustrations was to not still be there at the back end of it, but he's a quality bowler with a huge amount of skill and pace," said Root.
The former England captain was also excited at the prospect of keeping his on-field rivalry with Bumrah throughout this five-match series.
"So, 1-0 to him, although 1-1 actually as I got him out earlier. I'm sure that this battle will continue throughout the series," he added.
Later, Mhambrey also allayed any concerns over Bumrah's fitness.
The pacer was seen taking some pills towards the fag end of the day, and Mhambrey attributed it to cramps.
(With inputs from PTI)
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