Bumrah finished with three wickets, conceding only seven runs, and even bowled a maiden over in India’s 47-run victory over Afghanistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup Super 8. His figures, 4-1-7-3, were remarkable, and if not for Suryakumar Yadav’s explosive 28-ball 53, Bumrah would have secured his third Player of the Match award in this World Cup. In such stellar form, Bumrah doesn’t need much guidance from the bowling coach. Teammate Axar Patel disclosed that no one in the team gives Bumrah instructions on his bowling.
Speaking post-game, Axar Patel shared that India’s bowling coach Paras Mhambrey prefers minimal interaction with Bumrah to avoid overwhelming him with advice.
“I don’t think anyone in the Indian team talks about Bumrah’s bowling, as he has an idea of what to do,” said Axar Patel.
“As much as I’ve seen, the bowling coach does not interfere much. He tells him, ‘Whatever your mindset is, it is clear, so just execute your plans,’ “ Axar added.
And rightly so. Bumrah has been in exceptional form. After ending IPL 2024 with his best-ever economy for a single season, he has carried his form into the 2024 T20 World Cup, picking up eight wickets in four games.
Against Afghanistan, Bumrah’s sharp mind was on display again. Recognizing the slow nature of the Barbados wicket, Bumrah utilized cutters and slower deliveries effectively.
Earlier, he had claimed the wicket of Afghanistan’s top run-scorer of the tournament, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, in the second over.
Bumrah’s final figures were three wickets for seven runs, including a maiden over.
“Jasprit Bumrah is a world-class bowler, and we can always get out of a tough situation with such quality in the side,” added Axar.
Bumrah had previously won the Player of the Match awards in India’s first two T20 World Cup matches against Ireland and arch-rivals Pakistan. Particularly against Pakistan, Bumrah turned the game around in the middle overs by dismissing a well-set Mohammad Rizwan.
India’s next challenge is against Bangladesh on June 22, in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup, at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.
