Australian captain Pat Cummins commended Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, emphasising his significant impact on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Cummins hailed Bumrah as India’s ‘most influential player.’
Australia secured a commanding 184-run victory over India in the Melbourne Test, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.
Bumrah’s bowling prowess was once again on display. In the first innings, he claimed three quick wickets, revitalising India’s chances when Australia seemed to have the upper hand. Bumrah continued his impressive form in the second innings, finishing the match with figures of 9/156.
He currently tops the wicket-takers’ chart in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with 30 wickets at an average of 12.83.
During the post-match press conference, Cummins acknowledged the challenges Bumrah posed for Australia throughout the series.
“Obviously, a really good bowler in great form. You know, he’s been their most influential player. He’s made it difficult for us at times. I thought all their bowlers bowled really well yesterday. I don’t think the pitch was doing too much, but they made it really tough for us and toiled hard. So, I thought they all bowled quite well. You know, he in particular poses the biggest threat,” said Cummins.
Cummins praised the collective effort of the Indian bowlers, noting their effectiveness despite the pitch offering little assistance. He specifically identified Bumrah as the most significant threat.
India was set a target of 340 runs on the final day of the Melbourne Test. Despite having the entire day to bat, they fell short, bowled out for 155 in the 80th over.
The Australian bowlers, particularly Pat Cummins, delivered fiery spells that dismantled the Indian batting line-up.
Cummins’ outstanding all-round performance earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award.