Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra said Jasprit Bumrah ticked all the right boxes in the first T20I against Ireland at the Village, Dublin on Friday, which the visitors won by two runs (DLS method). Bumrah made a much-awaited comeback to International cricket after a long layoff due to back injury.
The gun fast bowler was able to hit the ground running upon his return as he had figures of 2-24 in his quota of four overs against Ireland, with a total of 16 dot balls.
Bumrah accounted for Ireland opener Andrew Balbirnie and wicket-keeper bat Lorcan Tucker in his fine spell. Ergo, the Indian skipper played an integral role in restricting the home team to 139-7 in their 20 overs after deciding to bowl first.
“Boom Boom – two wickets in the first over. You would have got a smile on your face, even I had one. What did you want from Jasprit Bumrah? You wanted high pace, intensity, accuracy and that everything is alright. He looks good.”
“India won and even better than India winning was Bumrah’s comeback and my Player of the Match is Jasprit Bumrah. He did an amazing job in the first over itself. I had said Bumrah will pick up a wicket in his first over. Bumrah picked up wickets in the first over, not one but two. Well done Jasprit Bumrah,” said Chopra on his YouTube Channel.
On the other hand, the reputed commentator also lauded Bumrah’s captaincy and felt he rotated his bowlers with guile.
“Bumrah was away from cricket for a long time but he still has pride, he is very, very good. He bowled extremely well and I would say he also captained well. He rotated his bowlers very well although a few extra runs were scored in the end,” said Chopra.
Bumrah will look to continue the good show as he is going to hold the key in the upcoming Asia Cup and the World Cup. The second T20I between India and Ireland will be played at the Village, Dublin on Sunday.
