Although Bumrah has the least amount of experience as captain, Rohit Sharma pointed out ahead of the Bengaluru Test that the pacer is well knowledgeable about the game.
The first Test match between India and New Zealand will begin on October 16 at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The three-Test series squad for India has been announced, and Mohammed Shami has not rejoined the team due to his ongoing ailment. However, the availability of their top pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, and the fact that the veteran is playing at his best will give India great hope.
After a lengthy absence since the T20 World Cup 2024 final, Bumrah returned to the Indian squad with the Bangladesh series. In two Test matches, he took 11 wickets at an average of 12.82. Given the uncertainty surrounding Rohit Sharma’s availability, he is anticipated to captain India against Australia.
“I’ve played a lot of cricket with Bumrah, and we’ve played a lot together. He has a good understanding of the game. There is a good sense of judgement in him. Since he hasn’t captained much, I can’t say much about his tactics. I believe he has captained a couple of Twenty20 matches and one Test match. But notice that he understands the game when you speak to him. He knows what is necessary. I believe Bumrah will be one of those leaders who will rise up when the time comes,” Rohit remarked.
Having Jasprit Bumrah around is probably the right thing to do: Rohit Sharma
In 2022, Bumrah captained the squad in the postponed Test match against England. Even during India’s two T20I tours of Ireland, he captained the team. In important moments of any match, Rohit’s top target is the India vice-captain in Test cricket. Regarding his contributions, Rohit mentioned that the right-arm pacer has consistently been a member of the leadership team and helps develop new players.
He has thus consistently been a member of our leadership group in the past. You know, whether it’s addressing the just added bowlers to the team. Even if it’s just gathering the team internally to talk about how to proceed as a unit. He has therefore consistently been a member of that leadership team. Yes, I suppose one of the more seasoned players as well.
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Therefore, simply having him there and talking to the bowlers is definitely the appropriate thing to do. And talk about how to move the team ahead internally,” he continued.