How Did Bumrah Achieve His Fifer Against England?

Leeds, June 23 (NationPress) India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah credited his impressive performance of 5-83 against England in the ongoing first Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Headingley to his focus on strategies that have proven effective for him after evaluating the playing conditions.

Bumrah emerged as India’s leading bowler during day three, achieving figures of 5-83 in 24.4 overs, marking his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket and helping India secure a slender six-run lead by dismissing England for 465 runs in their first innings. This performance also saw him equal the legendary Kapil Dev for the highest number of five-wicket hauls by an Indian bowler in away Tests, now at 12.

“I felt confident during the first innings. The downhill slope can be advantageous, and the wind conditions were favorable, providing an extra boost. While it’s tempting to attempt extravagant deliveries with the Dukes ball, I concentrated on what has worked for me,” Bumrah shared during a Sky Sports broadcast ahead of day four’s play on Monday.

When asked to elaborate on his dismissal of Zak Crawley in the presence of former India head coach Ravi Shastri, Bumrah stated, “The key is to hit the seam and achieve some early swing with the new ball. That was my primary focus. The conditions were cloudy at that moment.”

“Typically, the Dukes ball can be unpredictable with its swing when new. However, as it gets older, it tends to swing more consistently. Fortunately, the ball was swinging right from the start. I aimed for a good length to entice Crawley forward, and my execution was spot on that day,” he added.

Further inquiring about the techniques he employs to achieve swing and seam, Bumrah explained, “I have a unique grip and do not utilize my index finger. Instead, I rely on my middle finger. For outswing, I flick it outward, and for inswing, I flick it inward, as my bowling style doesn’t allow for significant changes in arm path.”

“I generally use my second finger for both types of swing because that's how I've always bowled. Over the years, I've learned that my arm path is something I cannot significantly alter. I may adjust my position on the crease, but I focus on flicking the ball to achieve the desired swing,” he clarified.

Bumrah concluded by expressing satisfaction with his rhythm during the five-wicket haul at Headingley, stating, “The rhythm felt excellent, even in Beckenham, where we practiced. Since arriving here post-IPL, my rhythm has been very positive. I aimed to maintain that focus without becoming overly aggressive.”