New Delhi: Former Australia captain Greg Chappell hailed Jasprit Bumrah as a “champion performer” following his Player of the Match display in the first Test between India and Australia at Optus Stadium, Perth. Captaining the visitors in Rohit Sharma’s absence, Bumrah led from the front, claiming eight wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings. His inspiring performance helped restore confidence in the Indian side after they were dismissed for just 150 in their first innings.
Bumrah arguably delivered the ball of the match in the second innings to dismiss India’s nemesis, Travis Head. However, despite his outstanding performance, a section of fans have raised concerns about the pacer’s action, accusing him of chucking.
Chappell has now put the matter to rest, urging critics to stop the “nonsense” of repeatedly questioning the 30-year-old’s action.
“India’s bowlers, spearheaded by the lethal Jasprit Bumrah, looked sharper and more menacing. Australia were bundled out for 104 in 52 overs, with Bumrah proving almost unplayable at times,” Chappell wrote in his column for Sydney Morning Herald.
“By the way, please stop this nonsense of questioning Bumrah’s action. It is unique, but it is unequivocally clean. It demeans a champion performer and the game to even bring it up,” added the former Team India coach.
Greg Chappell also opined that the selectors might have to take some hard calls if Australia are to face another defeat in Adelaide. The hosts have been facing brickbats ever since losing the first Test in Perth by 295 runs.
“It is frightening to think that spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin – who have more than 850 wickets between them – along with batters Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, will most likely come in to strengthen the Indians for Adelaide. Mohammed Shami, with 229 Test wickets to his credit, is waiting in the wings as well,” said Chappell.
The Australian great also showered praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored his first overseas century in the second innings of the Perth Test. Chappell was impressed by the left-hander’s knock of 161, describing his “determination as remarkable.”
“Jaiswal’s journey encapsulates why India’s planning and infrastructure give them a clear edge in world cricket. The young left-hander moved to Mumbai at 10, seeking the best competition to realise his dream of representing India. Considering the staggering odds of breaking into the Indian XI, his determination is remarkable,” said Chappell.
“There are so many players in India who are good enough to play Test cricket, but some can’t even get a game for their State team,” he added.
India and Australia will now face off in the pink ball Test in Adelaide, starting December 6.
