Paras Mhambrey, India’s bowling coach, praised Jasprit Bumrah as an exceptional bowler for his outstanding performance on Day 3, maintaining India’s lead in the Hyderabad Test against England, despite Ollie Pope’s excellent century.
Following India’s first innings closure at 436, England faltered to 163/5. Yet, Ollie Pope’s exceptional unbeaten century (148* off 208) rejuvenated the visitors. By the end of Day 3, England reached 316/6 in their second innings, establishing a lead of 126 runs.
Previously, Bumrah secured crucial dismissals, including those of Ben Duckett and Joe Root, putting England in a challenging position. Following the conclusion of the third day’s play, Mhambrey commended the lead pacer’s performance.
“Bumrah was bowling very well and was moving the ball both ways. That’s the quality he has. He is a special bowler and we have seen what he can do in overseas conditions.”
“He has not played much (Test) cricket in India. Every time he turns up, he gives his best. It’s pure skills,” the Indian bowling coach said at a press conference, as quoted as saying by PTI.
The ex-Indian fast bowler also commended Bumrah for his positive impact within the team’s dressing room.
“The dressing room conversations he has, the energy he brings on to the field…he is a part of the discussion when the captain and support staff are around, he’s right there with all suggestions,” the 51-year-old elaborated.
Additionally, Mhambrey addressed worries regarding Bumrah’s fitness. Although the fast bowler was observed taking some pills at the end of the day’s play, the coach clarified that it was due to cramps and nothing more.
“Not focusing on a specific goal”- Mhambrey
Inquired about Day 4 strategies, the Indian bowling coach mentioned that they don’t have specific targets but emphasized their aim to dismiss the remaining England batsmen at the earliest opportunity.
“We are not looking at a particular target as our objective is to come tomorrow [Sunday] and bowl well in the morning, try to get early wickets as quickly as possible and limit the total. So we are not putting us under any sort of pressure by giving a target,” Mhambrey said.
When questioned about whether the pitch is providing support to bowlers, he included:
“It still has something for the bowlers. If you look at the last session and the last few overs there is still little turn from the stump line. It will be the same tomorrow [Sunday] and won’t change much. The pace got a little bit slower and was easier to negotiate the turn but still enough to keep the bowlers in.”
At the close of Day 3, England finished with Rehan Ahmed (16* off 31) partnering alongside Pope.
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