After the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar trophy, Australian opener Usman Khawaja tipped India’s gun fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah as the toughest bowler he has ever faced in his career. Bumrah had his wood on the left-hander throughout the series, dismissing him on six occasions.
Khawaja could only manage 184 runs in 10 innings at an average of 20.44 in the five-match series, which Australia won by 3-1 to regain the BGT and also qualified for the WTC final.
On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah had a splendid series, taking 32 wickets in five Test matches at an average of 13.06. The Indian pack leader could not bowl in the second innings at the SCG due to a back spasm.
Usman Khawaja said on ABC Sport after the six-wicket win at the SCG on Sunday, “I was just getting Bumrah’d. It’s a shame he was (injured) but thank god for us. Today would’ve been an absolute nightmare facing him on that wicket. As soon as we didn’t see him out there we thought ‘alright, we’ve got a chance here’. He’s the toughest bowler I’ve ever faced.”
Meanwhile, Travis Head, who top-scored with 448 runs in the series, added that the Australian squad was happy after Bumrah didn’t bowl on the third day’s play in Sydney.
“I think there were 15 people really pleased that Bumrah didn’t bowl today. He’s a great performer, he had an exceptional tour. Nice to contribute, I don’t worry about the results too much. Two great teams, felt like it would be nice if I could come out and contribute,” said Head.
Bumrah was absolutely sensational for the team as he ticked the right boxes and troubled the Australian batters with his accurate line and length.
India will next play three ODIs and five T20Is against England in the home conditions.
