Ravi Shastri rates Jasprit Bumrah as India’s greatest fast bowler, says he can dismantle any opposition

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has rated Jasprit Bumrah as India’s greatest ever fast bowler. Bumrah was once again sensational for India on the second day’s play against England in the opening Test at Leeds, Headingley on Saturday.

The ace fast bowler returned with figures of 3-48 in the 13 overs he bowled against the home team. Bumrah was the lone warrior for the visitors as the other bowlers went wicketless.

The gun pacer accounted for Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root. Ben Duckett was dropped twice whereas Ollie Pope also received a reprieve against Bumrah. Harry Brook had the rub of the green on his side as he was dismissed on a no-ball by India’s pack leader.

“There is no question he is India’s greatest fast bowler. I played with Kapil Dev, but this guy is different. He can dismantle any opposition, on any surface, in any format.”

“I thought Malcolm Marshall was the best I saw in reading a batter and setting him up, but this guy is not far behind. Where I have seen Bumrah improve is in getting swing with the new ball. When he swings the new ball, it becomes hard for any batter in the world to counter him, given his action and late release,” said Shastri in a conversation with Sky Sports ahead of day three’s play.

England ended the day’s play at 209-3, trailing by India’s score by 262 runs and Shastri added that the visitors are still in front as they have the runs on the board.

“I believe they still have the upper hand. They have the runs on the board, and Bumrah can change the game within the first hour. If he can take a couple of wickets, India will feel they can secure a lead,” he added.

After lunch on the third day, England were 350-6, trailing India’s score of 471 by 121 runs.