Australian batter Usman Khawaja he expressed relief that he didn’t have to deal with it jasprit bumrah in the final innings of the Sydney Test. Khawaja, who had fallen to Bumrah six times during the series, did not hold back in calling the Indian pacer the toughest bowler he has ever faced.
Khawaja on Facing Bumrah: ‘I was just getting Bumrah’d’
Jasprit Bumrah has had an amazing run, taking 32 wickets in five Tests at an impressive average of 13.06. However, a back spasm ruled him out of bowling in the final innings of the Sydney Test, where Australia he chased down 162 to win the match and the series 3–1.
Reflecting on Bumrah’s challenge, Khawaja admitted to ABC Sport, “I was just getting Bumrah’d. It’s a shame he got injured, but thank God for us. Today it would be an absolute nightmare to face him at that gate. Once 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
Australian middle-order batsman Travis Head, who also struggled against Bamrah throughout the series, agreed with Khawaja. “I think 15 people were really happy that Bumrah didn’t bowl today. He’s a great performer, he’s had a great tour,” Head said.
Head was instrumental in Australia’s win in Sydney, scoring an unbeaten 34 in a 46-run partnership with Khawaja. His innings helped stabilize Australia’s chase Prasidh KrishnaHis early strikes threatened to derail the home side.
“I’m not too worried 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 named Player of the Series for his outstanding performance. His ability to trouble batters on various pitches, both inside India and abroad, he showed why he is considered one of the best bowlers in the world.
For Australia, Bumrah’s dismissal in the final innings proved to be a turning point. Khawaja and Head both acknowledged the psychological boost they received from not having to face him during the crucial chase.
The head ponders in an exhausting series
Head also spoke about the intensity of the five game streak and the toll it took on the players. “The last series here, they played extremely well. Even in Perth, they put us on the back foot,” he said.
He finished by discussing his plans ahead of the upcoming tour Sri Lanka. “I’m devastated. 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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