Former England pacer Steve Harmison has sparked a fiery debate, declaring Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada as the top two “multi-format” fast bowlers in the world today. This bold claim comes after Bumrah’s crucial six-wicket haul 6/69 (2/28 and 4/41) in the Hyderabad Test, where he single-handedly provided crucial breakthroughs for India.
Steve Harmison, a two-time Ashes winner and renowned cricket pundit, believes Jasprit Bumrah unique action, exceptional skillset, and adaptability across formats set him apart. In an interview with The Telegraph, he draws parallels with James Anderson, another bowling legend, highlighting their ability to “find a way to be effective on any surface, create pressure and take wickets.”
But what truly elevates Jasprit Bumrah, according to Steve Harmison, is his “very, very high skill level.” He elaborates, “He can bowl the slower ball, the yorker, that too at a good pace, while he can get a good bounce too and can swing the ball both ways.” This unpredictability, coupled with his relentless pace, makes him a nightmare for batsmen.
Jasprit Bumrah: Multi-format master
Further praising Jasprit Bumrah’s growth, Harmison compares him to a young James Anderson, who initially tried to “bowl everything in one over.” He notes that Bumrah, “over the course of the last three-four years, with his experience is learning what’s the right ball to bowl at the right time to be effective.” This strategic maturity has propelled him to the top of the bowling echelon.
While Bumrah spearheads India’s attack, Harmison also acknowledges the resurgence of James Anderson, who is set to replace Mark Wood in the second Test. He lauds Anderson’s ability to “adapt to any situations,” particularly his mastery of reverse swing, which could prove decisive on Indian pitches.
This expert opinion throws fuel into the ongoing debate about the best multi-format bowlers. While Bumrah and Rabada are strong contenders, others like Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc also vie for the title. But Harmison’s recognition reignites the conversation, urging cricket fans to appreciate the unique talents and contributions of these pace-bowling maestros.
The battle for bowling supremacy continues, and with Jasprit Bumrah, Kagiso Rabada, and James Anderson leading the charge, cricket lovers are in for a thrilling spectacle across formats.
