Australian dough Usman Khawaja expressed relief that they don’t have to face it Jasprit Bumrah in the final innings of the Sydney Test. Khawaja, who fell to Bumrah six times during the series, did not hold back and called the Indian pacer the strongest bowler he had ever faced.
Khawaja on facing Bumrah: “I was just getting Bumrah’d”
Jasprit Bumrah has had a great run, taking 32 wickets in five Tests at an impressive average of 13.06. However, a back spasm prevented him from bowling in the final innings of the Sydney Test, where Australia chased down 162 to win the match and the series 3-1.
Reflecting on the challenge of facing Bumrah, Khawaja admitted to ABC Sport: “I was just getting Bumrah’d. It’s a shame he was injured, but thank God for us. Today, it would be a real nightmare to face him on that wicket. As soon as we didn’t see him out there, we thought, ‘Okay, we’ve got a chance here.’ He is the toughest bowler I have ever faced.”
Travis Head echoes Khawaja’s sentiments
Australia’s middle-order batsman Travis Head, who also battled Bumrah throughout the series, agreed with Khawaja. “I think there were 15 people who were very happy that Bumrah didn’t bowl today. He’s a great performer, he’s had a great tour,” Head said.
Head played a key role in Australia’s win in Sydney, scoring an unbeaten 34 in a 46-run partnership with Khawaja. His additions helped stabilize Australia’s chase Prasidh KrishnaEarly strikes threatened to derail the hosts.
“I don’t worry too much about the results,” Head said of his contribution. “Two great teams. I just wanted to build a partnership with Usman and we did.”
Bumrah’s impact on the series
Despite missing the final innings, Bumrah was adjudged player of the series for his outstanding performance. His ability to trouble batsmen on different pitches, both in the India and abroad, he showed why he is considered one of the world’s best bowlers.
For Australia, avoiding Bumrah in the final innings proved to be a turning point. Khawaja and Head acknowledged the psychological boost they got from not having to face him during the crucial chase.
Head Reflects on a Grueling Series
Head also spoke about the intensity of the five-match series and the toll it took on the players. “In the last series here, they played extremely well. They even put us on the back foot in Perth,” he said.
He concluded by discussing his plans before the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. “I’m broken. I don’t know what I will do for the next 10 days. I will take care of myself and prepare for Sri Lanka.”
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