NEW DELHI: Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has praised Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, calling him one of the toughest bowlers he has ever faced. Maxwell described the challenge of facing Bumrah as “incredibly difficult,” highlighting the bowler’s unique action, searing pace, and pinpoint accuracy that make him a nightmare for batters.
Maxwell also expressed his admiration for Bumrah’s ability, considering him a potential contender for the title of the greatest fast bowler in cricket history. He attributed this status to Bumrah’s distinct bowling style and exceptional delivery skills.
Reflecting on Bumrah’s stellar performance during the Perth Test match against Australia, Maxwell emphasized the Indian pacer’s remarkable leadership and bowling acumen. Bumrah’s eight-wicket haul in the match, including a five-wicket spell in the first innings, played a pivotal role in India’s commanding 295-run victory.
Maxwell, speaking on The Grade Cricketer podcast, said, “Bumrah is going to go down as potentially the best fast bowler of all time. It might not be about the sheer number of wickets across formats, but for those who have faced him, he’s incredibly difficult. His unique action and extraordinary skill with the ball make him the complete package.”
He further elaborated, “He can swing the ball both ways, rush you with pace, and beat you on both the inside and outside edges. Add to that his effective slower ball—it’s an all-around challenge.”
Bumrah’s outstanding performance in the Perth Test earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award and helped him reclaim the top spot in the ICC Test bowler rankings, surpassing South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada and Australia’s Josh Hazlewood.
In his 41-Test career to date, Bumrah has claimed 181 wickets at an impressive average of 20.06. His best bowling figures of 6/27 and 11 five-wicket hauls underscore his consistency and dominance. Particularly remarkable are his achievements in Australian conditions, where he has taken 40 wickets at an excellent average of 18.80, including two five-wicket hauls, with his best figures being 6/33.
Bumrah’s influence on cricket, as Maxwell noted, transcends mere statistics, cementing his status as one of the sport’s true legends.
