Jasprit Bumrah's emergence as a destructive bowler may have surprised many in the cricket world but not Sachin Tendulkar. “Honestly, I had seen this coming,” the master told Sportstar here on Monday.
The Gujarat fast bowler's success in Australia, where India won its first-ever Test series, was a key element in Virat Kohli's team making history.
In four matches, Bumrah finished with 21 wickets, five more than Mohammad Shami, who also made some crucial dents in the opposition batting.
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“I am not surprised by Bumrah's success,” emphasised Tendulkar. “Having spent time with him and seen his sincere and honest efforts to improve and learn, I always knew it was a matter of time before he would rattle the best batsmen in the world.
"I have seen from close quarters how he looks to improve. In 2015, I had seen his ability to win a battle. With Kane Williamson in batting, I had said Bumrah would make his mark. I am happy he has.
"His action and deceptive bowling, plus the consistency to take wickets, make him a dangerous bowler. He knows how to execute his plans. Bumrah will be a big threat to the opposition and a great asset to India at the World Cup."
I always focus on consistency, says Bumrah
Other than Bumrah, Tendulkar was delighted with the arrival of wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who has two centuries and two half-centuries in nine Tests thus far. “Rishabh has terrific prospects in international cricket. He has a great future but he must keep his head on his shoulders and look to enjoy his game. If he keeps his focus he will play long because things will happen around his cricket essentially. I have liked his approach and the fact that he is fearless,” said Tendulkar.
READ: There's something Australian about Kohli's Team India
Tendulkar was in the capital to unveil the “Sachin Saga VR”, India’s first virtual reality cricket multiplayer headset. According to him, the experience would give people an idea of what happens on the field. “I hope it will now enable people to think twice before criticising a cricketer for not being able to play the way he/she intended to,” he noted.
“We shot my pictures used in the video in a studio in London with 38 cameras all over to capture every batting movement of mine. They have compiled 100 of my favourite innings in the VR headset,” said Tendulkar. With 10 million downloads recorded, he said they were going to improve upon the current structure. He also advocated a balance between indoor and outdoor games. “It is important that you go and play outside. This game (VR) helps you bond with your friends,” he added.
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