Ian Chappell identifies key players for India's tour of Australia
Former Australian skipper, Ian Chappell, has highlighted the importance of Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant in India's upcoming cricket series against Australia. He believes that their peak performance and injury-free status are crucial for India to secure a historic third consecutive series victory Down Under. Chappell expressed these views in his column for ESPNcricinfo, emphasizing the significance of these two players in the high-profile bilateral series. Here's more.
Chappell praises Pant's resilience and importance
Chappell praised Pant's resilience following a severe car accident, and his subsequent return to the Test arena. He described Pant as a vital wicketkeeper-batter in India's lineup, whose top form could significantly boost the team during their Australian tour. Chappell also recalled Pant's instrumental role in India's previous series win in 2020-21, where he delivered match-saving performances with scores of 97 at Sydney and an unbeaten 89 at Gabba.
Pant's wicketkeeping skills crucial for Australian conditions
Chappell further emphasized the importance of Pant's wicketkeeping skills in Australia's unique playing conditions. He stated that a keeper who can cover a lot of territory on both sides of the wicket is essential in Australia. Chappell also suggested that Pant's improved glovework might be due to a stern warning from former coach Ravi Shastri, which demonstrates his commitment to enhancing his skills.
Bumrah's form and fitness are vital for India
Chappell also underscored the importance of Bumrah's form and fitness for the upcoming series. He noted that since recovering from a lower back stress fracture surgery in August 2023, Bumrah has effectively managed his workload across different formats. Chappell identified Bumrah as the leader of India's attack, stating that it is crucial for him to be in top form while maintaining his fitness throughout the five Tests against Australia.
Rishabh Pant celebrates Test comeback with stunning century
Pant made a triumphant return to Test cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter smoked a stunning century on Day 3 of the just concluded first Test match against Bangladesh in Chennai. After scoring 39 runs in the 1st innings, Pant hammered 109 from 128 balls in the 2nd innings. As per ESPNcricinfo, he has now raced to 2,419 runs from 34 matches at 44.79 and a strike rate of 74.11. While this was his sixth Test ton, he owns 11 fifties as well.
Bumrah was on song versus Bangladesh
Bumrah claimed 4/50 from 11 overs in the 1st innings. Bumrah etched his name in the annals of Indian cricket history by becoming the sixth Indian fast bowler to claim 400 international wickets. In the 2nd innings, Bumrah took 1/24 from his 10 overs (2 maidens). In 37 Tests, Bumrah has raced to 164 wickets. He owns 402 international wickets across 228 innings at 21-plus.
