Former Australian skipper Aaron Finch feels getting Jasprit Bumrah back will be vital for India’s World Cup chances. Bumrah has been India’s pack leader for the last few seasons but he is currently out of action due to a back injury.
Bumrah had last played in the T20I series against Australia in 2022 before the T20 World Cup. The ace pacer recently underwent back surgery in New Zealand and is expected to return to action in August.
There is no doubt that Bumrah is going to hold the key in the ODI World Cup as he has all the skills under his belt. However, it wouldn’t be easy for him to hit the ground running once he makes a return to the International level.
“I think getting Jasprit Bumrah back is vital for India. He is the best in the world when he is up and running. So, if he is not available, that will probably lead to a hole in the innings in terms of wicket-taking ability because he is so dangerous,” said Finch.
Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are currently opening the innings and they have done a great job at the top of the order. Finch reckons it will be imperative for the openers to set the foundation so that the middle order can be aggressive to get a big score for the team.
“But if the Indian opening combination, gets a good platform, then the rest of the team can be aggressive. There is power in the middle order with Hardik and Sky being there. There are not many weaknesses in the Indian team. They have got great spin options and very good fast bowlers. What will come down to in the World Cup will be executed on a particular day,” Finch added.
On the other hand, Finch reckons Glenn Maxwell will hold the key for India as he can contribute with both bat and ball.
“Glenn Maxwell will be a huge player because of his ability to bat, bowl, and field. His versatility is crucial for the Australian team. I think the opening combination with the bat of David Warner and Travis Head will be a huge factor too. If they set a good platform, then the middle order and lower order can do so much,” said Finch.
India had won the first ODI against Australia by five wickets whereas the visitors had bounced back to win the second game by 10 wickets.
