NEW DELHI: Australia captain Pat Cummins lauded India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, acknowledging his exceptional form and consistent ability to trouble batters across all formats. Speaking ahead of the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Cummins admitted that facing Bumrah is always a daunting task.
"Bumrah is bowling well at the moment. He is always tough," Cummins said during the pre-match press conference. "Hopefully, by the time I come in, late in the day, he has bowled quite a bit, which might make it a bit easier for me. But he is bowling well. I’ve faced him quite a bit across the world in different formats, and he always poses a challenge."
In a lighthearted comment, Cummins added, "Last game, it helped as I was at the non-striker’s end. That certainly helped [laugh]."
Australia, leading the series 2-1, have the chance to secure the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since 2014-15 with a win or draw in Sydney. Victory would also guarantee their place in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June against South Africa.
In addition to praising Bumrah, Cummins confirmed a few changes in Australia’s lineup. Allrounder Mitch Marsh has been dropped following a string of underwhelming performances, with Beau Webster set to make his debut.
"Mitchy obviously hasn’t quite got the runs or wickets he would have liked this series and felt like it was time for a freshen up," Cummins explained. "Beau’s been with the squad and been great. It’s a shame for Mitchy because we know how much he brings to the team, but we feel like now is a good time for Beau to get a chance."
Mitchell Starc, despite carrying a rib niggle, has been retained and will feature in the bowling attack alongside Cummins, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon. Starc’s inclusion underscores his significance, with Cummins remarking, "He was never going to miss this one."
