BGT: Chappell Commends Head’s Daring Tactics Against Bumrah
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New Delhi, Dec 24 (NationPress) Former Australian cricketer Greg Chappell has applauded Travis Head for his daring and successful tactics against India’s pace leader, Jasprit Bumrah, during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
In his column for The Sydney Morning Herald, Chappell emphasized Head's ability to not only survive against Bumrah but also to mount a counter-attack, thereby disrupting the rhythm of one of the world's most fierce bowlers.
Head’s performances against Bumrah are remarkable in a series where many batters have found it challenging to face the Ahmedabad-born pacer’s unorthodox action, blistering pace, and pinpoint accuracy. Bumrah has taken 21 wickets in three Tests at a staggering average of 10.90. Although Bumrah has dismissed Head twice, the left-hander has scored 83 runs off him at an average of 41.5 and an impressive strike rate of 91.2.
Chappell highlighted Head’s fearless intent and proactive mindset in confronting Bumrah. “Head’s performances against Jasprit Bumrah in this series exemplify his fearless approach,” Chappell noted.
“While most batsmen find it hard to withstand Bumrah’s unusual action, sharp pace, and relentless accuracy, Head has treated him like any other bowler. By playing with intent and seeking to score off Bumrah, Head has not only diminished his threat but also disrupted his rhythm.”
Chappell further commended Head’s technical skills, particularly his ability to dominate short-pitched deliveries and execute precise drives on fuller ones. “His capacity to dispatch short deliveries with authority and drive fuller ones with precision has been impressive, highlighting the progress he has made,” the former Indian head coach remarked.
Head’s fearless batting has been crucial to Australia’s success in the series. His rapid 140 in the pink-ball Test came when Australia was under pressure at 103/3, a performance that shifted the momentum back in their favor. In the third Test in Brisbane, Head’s monumental 152 off 160 balls, which included a massive 241-run partnership with Steve Smith, further demonstrated his ability to dominate world-class bowlers under challenging conditions.
Beyond his batting skills, Chappell believes that Head’s consistency across formats and his temperament make him a strong candidate to succeed Pat Cummins as Australia’s captain. The 76-year-old wrote, “I consider Travis to be the most improved batter in world cricket over the past three years, and in doing so, has strengthened his case to be the next Australian captain. In his current form, Travis embodies the Australian style of batting.”
Chappell also echoed the sentiments of former Australian players Ricky Ponting and Ian Healy, who have expressed their admiration for Head. “I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen when he was batting in the Brisbane Test,” Chappell stated.
With the series tied at 1-1, the upcoming Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, starting on Thursday, will be crucial for both teams.
