The long search to summon an ideal new-ball pair seems to have finally found its way. Off late, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah have proved their mettle in India’s ODI side. Not only can they wreck havoc with their opening spells but also tactfully restrict the opposition in the death overs.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s increased control of the new ball and steady bowling average of 36.01 at an economy of 4.86 makes him the frontrunner to spear the pace attack. His newly-found fitness has empowered him with more pace and bounce. And his economy rate has been far better in the last few series. Of course, critics will argue that it has come against some of the less favoured sides. But in all fairness, you don’t control the opposition you play. So let’s call that conjecture!
On the other hand, his compatriot Bumrah has a phenomenal bowling average of 21.78 at an economy of 4.72. However, it must be take into account that Bumrah has played much fewer ODI’s as compared to Bhuvneshwar. Bumrah’s ability to swing the ball at will makes him an ideal tick to either open the bowling attack with Bhuvneshwar or handily accept first change. Along with his fuller-length deliveries, he has also recently adapted the length ball to add to his variation – the ball swings both ways and can foil a right or left-handed batsman.
Also Read: The Brilliance of Bhuvi vs Bumrah
As we steadily progress towards the 2019 World Cup, the team management has several decisions on hand. But with an ideal new-ball/optional pairing in place, the foundation has been laid. And India has one less thing to worry about.
Together, Bhuvneshwar and Bumrah can hold India’s bowling nerve at crucial junctures. And they have proved it time and again!
– Varun Kumar | SpreadSports
