Rishi Dhawan Praises Jasprit Bumrah as the Ultimate Fast Bowler

In a recent statement, former Indian pacer Rishi Dhawan hailed Jasprit Bumrah as the leading fast bowler in international cricket, praising his adaptability and consistent performance across formats. Dhawan also expressed support for the return of experienced pacers like Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar to the Indian team, emphasizing the importance of seasoned players in strengthening the bowling lineup. With the upcoming series against New Zealand, the Indian squad is set to see some exciting changes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 8, 2026, 02:32 IST

Dhawan Commends Bumrah's Versatility

Rishi Dhawan, a former Indian pacer, has expressed his admiration for Jasprit Bumrah, labeling him as the top fast bowler in the world today. He emphasized Bumrah's remarkable ability to excel in various formats of the game, stating, "Jasprit Bumrah consistently delivers outstanding performances across all formats. His adaptability is exceptional, and his presence in the team instills confidence, knowing he still has two overs left to bowl, which can lead us to victory."

Praise for Bumrah's Skillset

The 36-year-old Dhawan highlighted Bumrah's dedication and skill, noting his impressive variations in T20 matches and his capability to swing the ball in Test cricket. "His variations in T20s are remarkable, and in Tests, he consistently swings the ball both ways while maintaining accuracy. This is why I regard him as a complete bowler," he remarked.

Support for Experienced Pacers' Return

Dhawan also voiced his support for the inclusion of seasoned pacer Mohammed Shami in the Indian squad, especially following Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the T20I team for the upcoming series against New Zealand. He stated, "Shami has been working hard in domestic cricket, playing full seasons and showing strong performances. It’s crucial for selectors to recognize the value of an experienced and fit fast bowler like him. We would love to see him back in the national team."

Bhuvneshwar's Comeback

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been recalled to the Indian team after a four-year hiatus, as the squad for the five T20Is against New Zealand was announced. The series is set to commence on October 22, followed by five ODIs and two Test matches. If he plays, it will mark his first international appearance since the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal against England.

Shami's Ongoing Journey

Despite not being part of the national setup recently, Shami has remained active in domestic and first-class cricket, striving for a return to the Indian team. Dhawan reiterated the importance of experience in the fast-bowling lineup, especially with Bumrah leading the attack. He believes that having experienced players like Shami can significantly enhance the team's bowling strength across formats.