Ahead of the five-match T20I series against Australia, Team India`s captain Suryakumar Yadav said that the powerplay overs will be crucial, and lead pacer Jasprit Bumrah`s presence will boost the side`s chances in that period of the match.
“Yes, it is always a challenge, we have seen how they (Australia) played in the ODI series and also in the T20 World Cup. Power play is always important,” the Indian skipper said in the pre-series press conference.
He then gave the example of the concluded Asia Cup 2025 campaign, during which Bumrah bowled two overs in the powerplay.
“You saw in the Asia Cup, he (Bumrah) took the responsibility of bowling 2 overs minimum in the power play, so it is good that he is raising his hand, acting as if he is that guy who will take charge. It is going to be a good challenge definitely against the Aussie team in the power play,” said Yadav.
Further speaking, the skipper was nothing short of praise of the 31-year-old pacer and said that he is the most experienced among the current Indian players.
“The way he (Bumrah) has played his cricket for the last so many years, he has kept himself right on the top, and he knows how to prepare for a good series, he knows how to come and play cricket here. I think he has visited this country the most from all the guys, so all of the players have spoken to him, he is very open and very helpful in that. Definitely when he takes the ground it will be a good thing, good to have him in the squad, when we play in Australia,” said the Mumbai-born cricketer.
Yadav also hinted that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was ruled out of the third and final ODI due to an injured quadriceps, could be available for the T20I series.
“I think he is doing fine. Yesterday he did some bit of running, batting also in the nets. Today he wanted to take a break as it was an optional practice but we came to the ground because we had a team meeting and he wanted to stay with the group because T20 is new team, all the guys have come in, so he looks good.”
The first T20I match between Team India and Australia will be played on Wednesday at the Manuka Oval.
(With PTI Inputs)