Khawaja Labels Bumrah as the Most Challenging Bowler He Has Ever Encountered

Sydney, Jan 5 (NationPress) Australia opener Usman Khawaja stated that India's fast-bowling cornerstone Jasprit Bumrah is the most challenging bowler he has encountered in his cricketing journey. He humorously remarked that he was being consistently ‘Bumrah’d’ throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.

Bumrah achieved an impressive total of 32 wickets over five matches, maintaining an average of 13.06 and a strike rate of 28.37, earning him the Player of the Series accolade, even as India faced a 3-1 series loss.

"I was just getting Bumrah'd. It's unfortunate he was (injured), but thankfully for us, it was a relief. Today would have been a true nightmare facing him on that pitch. Once we realized he wasn’t playing, we all thought, 'Alright, we have a chance now.' He’s undoubtedly the toughest bowler I’ve faced," Khawaja remarked on ABC Sport after Australia secured a six-wicket victory in Sydney.

He also shared insights about his experience batting alongside young talent Sam Konstas. "I've never come across someone so confident yet so charming at the same time. He has a lovable personality paired with a hint of arrogance that he conveys with a smile," he noted.

Bumrah's absence on the third day due to a back spasm was a relief for Australia, a sentiment echoed by left-handed batter Travis Head during a discussion with broadcasters. “I believe there were 15 players very pleased that Bumrah didn’t bowl today. He’s an exceptional player, and he had a remarkable series,” he commented.

Head, who contributed 34 not out and helped stabilize Australia’s chase of 162 runs, reflected on their 46-run partnership for the fourth wicket, expressing confidence that they would achieve their target comfortably.

“It feels good to contribute. I don’t focus too much on the outcomes. Both teams were fantastic, and it felt right to be able to contribute. My approach remained consistent; I felt I was performing well, and I knew that if I built a partnership with Usman, we would be in a good position,” he elaborated.

“In the previous series here, they played exceptionally well, even in Perth where we were put under pressure. It’s been an intense five Tests, and those who endured all five are likely looking forward to some downtime. There has been a lot of media spotlight as well,” he continued.

“I was already aware of how talented Nitish was. They have numerous skilled players. We played exceptionally well and stepped it up. I’m exhausted; I’m unsure how I’ll spend the next 10 days. I’ll focus on recovery and prepare for Sri Lanka,” he mentioned.

All-rounder Beau Webster, who had an impressive Test debut with scores of 57 and 39 not out, along with taking a wicket and executing two sharp catches in Sydney, described the fast-paced Test as one of the most memorable matches for the home team.

“It’s been an incredible game; I couldn’t have wished for more. The crowd was fantastic, and the atmosphere was electric. As I was counting down the runs, I felt confident throughout the chase. When it came down to four runs, I was ready to go for it; it worked out, otherwise, I would have left it to Head,” he shared.

“It’s been a wonderful few weeks with the team. Getting a chance in the last match was unexpected but delightful. The crowd support throughout the series has been amazing. I appreciate everyone back home; it’s been a hectic few days,” Webster added.

Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc mentioned to ABC Sport that he was feeling quite sore after managing a back injury. He indicated he would take six days off before gearing up for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka later this month.

Starc is also set to commentate on the upcoming Women's Ashes matches starting January 12, where his wife Alyssa Healy will be leading the Australian team. "It’s taken a bit of a toll. That’s the essence of Test cricket; we push ourselves to the limit. I attempted to take it easy the other day but might have overdone it a little," he concluded.