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Injury-Free Bumrah And Pant Hold The Key For India: Ex-Australia Captain Spits Facts

Jasprit Bumrah (L) and Rishabh Pant (R) [X.com]Jasprit Bumrah (L) and Rishabh Pant (R) [X.com]

Team India are all set for a challenging five-test series in Australia. Former Australian captain Ian Chappell stresses the importance of keeping Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant injury-free. Starting in November 2024, this series is crucial for India as they aim for a historic third consecutive win in the Border-Gavasar Trophy.

India's upcoming matches, which include three Tests against New Zealand, the 80-year-old veteran believes that while the team should focus on getting as many players into form as possible, the health of Jasprit Bumrah and Pant must take precedence. 

In the ESPNCricinfo column, Chappell said, 

"India's main goal should be to get as many players into form as possible while avoiding major injuries. However, the focus must be on ensuring the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant."

Rishabh Pant's return to the Test arena after a severe car accident after two years was a moment of appreciation. His contributions were pivotal during India’s last victory in Australia, where he played iconic innings, including a vital 97 in Sydney and an unbeaten 89 at the Gabba. 

Chappell notes, "If Pant is at his best, he’s the ideal keeper for these conditions." His agility on the bouncy Australian pitches is critical; a keeper who can cover ground efficiently allows slip fielders to position themselves more effectively.

Chappell also noted that a firm warning from former head coach Ravi Shastri likely helped improve Pant’s glovework. 

"Before his serious injury, Pant's ability to stand up to the stumps significantly improved after an ultimatum from Shastri. His evolution from a questionable keeper against spinners to a skilled gloveman at the stumps shows his dedication," Chappell explained. 

Jasprit Bumrah's Fitness Remains Equally Crucial Ahead Of Five-Test Series Against Australia

Equally crucial is Bumrah's fitness. After undergoing surgery for a lower back stress fracture in August 2023, he has carefully managed his workload, maintaining his form in recent Test matches against South Africa and England.

"The fitness and form of both Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj—the two standout pace bowlers from the last Australian tour—are vital. Bumrah leads the attack, and it’s essential that he remains fit and in form for the bulk of the five Tests," Chappell remarked.