Published 20:11 IST, August 2nd 2023

'He is the Virat Kohli of bowling': Harbhajan Singh's huge proclamation about star player

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh congratulated the Indian pacer on his return but he also raised concerns over the pacer's fitness.

Reported by: Anirban Sarkar
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Indian players celebrate a fall of wicket during Asia Cup 2010 (Image:AP) | Image: self
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India's recent performance in the West Indies tour gave them some concerns which they would like to rectify before the ICC Cricket World Cup commences later this year. The Asia Cup will also be a stage to test the current setup as there will be a slender margin of error for Rohit Sharma and Co. They haven't gotten their hands on an ICC trophy since their Champions trophy triumph in 2013 and this time they will be pitted as one of the favourites owing to their home advantage. The World Cup will kick off on 5th October.

3 things you need to know

  • Bumrah was on the sideline since last September
  • This is Bumrah's first appearance following his participation in the 3 match T20I series against Australia in 2022
  • Jasprit Bumrah will captaining the Indian side for the first time

Jasprit Bumrah's return will be a big boost for Indian team

Jasprit Bumrah has been spearheading the Indian bowling unit but his persistent injury issues have affected his steady career. A back stress fracture ruled out him for the first part of 2023 but the player has been under rigorous rehabilitation in the last few weeks and is eyeing his place back on the Indian side.

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Also Read | Team India smash Pakistan's Zimbabwe record after historic series win against Windies

Bumrah's recall to the Indian side would automatically make him available for the Asia Cup given he proves his fitness. A good display in the Asia Cup would further enhance his chance of featuring in the upcoming World Cup.

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Harbhajan Singh showered praises on Jasprit Bumrah

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh congratulated the pacer on his return but he also raised concerns over the pacer's fitness. On his YouTube channel he said, "Jasprit Bumrah has made a comeback. He was injured for a long time and his return was awaited. He has come back and has been made the captain straightaway. Congratulations to Jassi for becoming the captain and foremost for getting fit. I hope and keep my fingers crossed that Jassi doesn't get injured again." He also termed Bumrah as the Virat Kohli of bowling.

Also Read: 'India can pick a second XI and even a third XI': Brian Lara's big statement after India drub West Indies

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"He has been missed a lot, whether you see the WTC final or the cricket that was played before that. I used to say earlier and am saying it today as well that if we talk about batting, we talk about Virat Kohli, and if there is a Virat Kohli of bowling, it is Jasprit Bumrah. There is no bigger name than him." It remains to be seen if Bumrah can manage to bowl in full throttle in the upcoming T20I series.

19:58 IST, August 2nd 2023