R Ashwin hails Jasprit Bumrah as Team India's 'Kohinoor diamond'
Ravichandran Ashwin, a key player in India's recent 280-run victory over Bangladesh, has defended his teammate Jasprit Bumrah against criticism. The controversy arose when Bumrah identified himself as the 'fittest cricketer' during an event. This statement sparked a debate among fans who were surprised that Virat Kohli was not mentioned. Here are further details.
Bumrah's statement on fitness stirs debate
Bumrah's statement about his fitness level was met with mixed reactions. "I know the answer you are searching for, but I would like to say my name because I am a fast bowler," he said. This led to a flurry of comments on social media, questioning his decision to place himself above Kohli in terms of fitness. Kohli is often recognized for significantly improving fitness standards in Indian cricket.
Ashwin supports Bumrah amid fitness debate
Ashwin, who is currently the leading wicket-taker among active Indian cricketers, defended Bumrah. He argued that people should understand the difference between a tipper lorry and a Mercedes Benz before criticizing Bumrah's fitness due to his injury in 2022. The injury had sidelined him from the T20 World Cup in Australia that year.
Ashwin compares Bumrah to 'tipper lorry'
Ashwin used a unique analogy to explain his point. "People immediately say Bumrah got injured; how can he be the fittest? Boss, there's a huge difference between a tipper lorry and a Mercedes Benz," he said. He likened a fast bowler to a tipper lorry that has to travel from North to South with heavy load, emphasizing on the physical demands of their role.
Ashwin hails Bumrah as 'Kohinoor of India'
Ashwin further praised Bumrah, referring to him as a "Kohinoor diamond." He urged people to let the fast bowler express his thoughts freely. "Why do you want to make this thing big? Jasprit Burmrah is a fast bowler who clocks 145 kph in the scorching heat, slogs so hard and is the crowned jewel of Indian cricket," Ashwin said.
