No like-to-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in the world: Shane Watson

Jasprit Bumrah. (PC- Associated Press)

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson opines that no player can replace Jasprit Bumrah considering what he brings to the table and his absence will hurt India at the T20 World Cup starting next month.

Bumrah was not involved in the first T20I against South Africa, and it was later reported that he suffered from stress fracture on his back.

Speaking to NDTV, Watson said that it will be a huge loss for India if the pace spearhead fails to make the cut for the T20 World Cup 2022. 

“If Jasprit Bumrah is not fit and not playing at this World Cup, then it would make it all the more difficult for Team India to win because Bumrah is as good as an attacking bowler and as defensive bowler as anyone in the world, let alone for India. He has got an incredible skill, it will be a huge loss,”  said Watson.

“There is no like-for-like replacement for Bumrah in the world, leave alone India. It is going to be very hard to find those defensive bowlers in trying to close the game when they are bowling last or close out an innings as well. That is going to be the real challenge. Some of the fast bowlers will be needed to step up and raise their hand if India wants to get into the back end of the tournament," watson added.

No final decision has been taken on his participation yet but as per reports, he is all but set to miss the World Cup. 

Also Read: I understand my game better than anyone else: Bumrah