“India isn’t the [same] team without Bumrah” – South Africa Legend Makhaya Ntini

South African fast bowling legend Makhaya Ntini reckons that Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has a special talent and stated that India isn’t the same squad without him.

Bumrah is part of the India squad for the ongoing two-match Test series against Proteas in South Africa. He is likely to be seen in action with a ball on Day 2 of the Centurion Test on December 27 (weather permitting).

Bumrah is India’s lead bowler across three formats of the game. In 30 Tests, he has claimed 128 wickets at an average of 21.99 with 85-wicket hauls. He has also picked up 149 scalps in 89 ODIs and 74 wickets in 62 T20Is at an average of less than 20.

Ntini appreciated Bumrah as an exceptionally gifted fast bowler to the team India.

“Look where Bumrah releases the ball. He releases the ball from the top of his head. So, he gets the angle to bring the ball back in. He can get deliveries to straighten after pitching. I don’t know if he has powerful wrists and action is always the same, that’s how beautiful it is.”

Bumrah was out of action for several months due to a back injury but made an impressive comeback during the tour of Ireland earlier this year and has not looked back since. He had a stellar ODI World Cup campaign, claiming 20 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 18.65.

What captured Ntini’s admiration was not just Bumrah’s skills but the unwavering consistency in his approach. His bowling action remains constant, a rhythm that defines reliability that leaves spectators in awe.

“I don’t know if he has powerful wrists and action is always the same, that’s how beautiful it is. His yorkers, he doesn’t miss any, those are the things everyone gets to enjoy. India isn’t the team without Bumrah,” added Ntini.

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