There is no like-for-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in the world, leave alone India: Shane Watson
India Today
Shane Watson has claimed that there is no like-for-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in the world and it will be a huge loss for India if the pace spearhead is ruled out of the upcoming World Cup. Bumrah's participation is in serious doubt after he pulled out of the ongoing South Africa series.
Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has said that there is no like-for-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah and claimed that it will be a big loss for India if the pacer misses out on playing at the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Bumrah's participation in the ICC tournament is under serious doubt as the 28-year-old had to withdraw from the ongoing series against South Africa due to a back injury.
Speaking to NDTV, Watson said that if the pace spearhead is unavailable for the World Cup then it will be difficult for India to win the tournament as he is good as both an attacking and defensive bowler. The former all-rounder also went on to claim that there is no like-for-like replacement for the 28-year-old in the world and some of the other pacers will need to step up in his absence if India are to go all the way in the tournament.
"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."
"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," said Watson.
India coach Rahul Dravid said that Bumrah has gone to the NCA and hasn't been completely ruled out of the World Cup yet and there is still hope that he could make it in time for the tournament.
