Sanjay Manjrekar is confident that India is ready to present its most impressive bowling attack yet in the upcoming Test series against Australia, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and the returning Mohammed Shami. As promising batsmen like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill gear up for their biggest challenge to date, the atmosphere is electric for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
In an interview with ESPN Cricinfo, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar highlighted India’s formidable bowling capabilities, forecasting that the duo of Bumrah, Shami, and Mohammed Siraj will create a significant threat when the series kicks off on November 22. He asserted that if India's batting order performs effectively in Australia, they could recreate their monumental series victory from 2020-21.
"India has faced Australia on previous tours, but this time they might deploy their strongest bowling line-up yet. Bumrah is in peak form, and Shami's return enhances the seam attack considerably. With fresh talents like Akash Deep in the mix, India’s pace bowlers are ready for battle. I think the Australians are in for a tough challenge," Manjrekar stated.
Shami, a key player in India’s 2018-19 series triumph, missed the 2020-21 series but last competed against Australia in the 2023 World Test Championship final. After undergoing surgery following the ODI World Cup 2023 final, he is anticipated to be fit for the eagerly awaited Test series.
Manjrekar also pointed out that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be a significant test for India’s emerging batting stars. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, who have both displayed impressive form, will confront one of the toughest tests of their careers. Gill, coming off a century in the Bangladesh Test series, alongside Jaiswal, known for his consistent performances, are crucial to India’s prospects, according to Manjrekar.
"India’s senior players must rise to the occasion, but this series is pivotal for young talents like Gill and Jaiswal. Strong performances could position India for another series win in Australia," he concluded.
With a well-rounded team and a powerful bowling attack, Manjrekar is optimistic about India’s prospects in what promises to be an exhilarating series against Australia.