Harbhajan Singh Urges India to Adapt Without Jasprit Bumrah
Harbhajan: India Must Learn to Win Without Bumrah
Renowned off-spinner Harbhajan Singh emphasized that the Indian cricket team must adapt and secure victories even in the absence of their star bowler, Jasprit Bumrah. On Wednesday, South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, made history by successfully chasing a daunting target of 359 runs, leveling the three-match ODI series at 1-1.
Bowling Struggles Amid Dewy Conditions
During South Africa's innings, Indian bowlers faced challenges in maintaining tight lines due to heavy dew on the field. The spin trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja struggled to make a significant impact, while fast bowlers Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna had disappointing performances.
'Where is Shami?': Harbhajan Questions Selections
In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan pointed out the need for India to find ways to win without Bumrah. He questioned the absence of Mohammed Shami from the lineup, stating, "Where is Shami? I don't understand why he isn't playing. While Prasidh is a promising bowler, he still has much to learn. We have sidelined experienced bowlers. With Bumrah, we have a different bowling attack, and without him, it changes entirely. We must master the art of winning without Jasprit Bumrah."
Spinner Suggestions for Shorter Formats
Harbhajan also recommended that the Indian management reintegrate Varun Chakaravarthy into the ODI squad. He noted, "In England, Siraj performed exceptionally well without Bumrah. India won all the Tests where Bumrah was absent. However, in shorter formats, we need players who can secure victories, whether through pace or spin. We should consider spinners who can take wickets. While Kuldeep is an option, we should also include Varun Chakaravarthy in ODIs, as he is already part of the T20I setup."
Match Summary: How South Africa Scripted History
India's Innings: Virat, Ruturaj Shine with Centuries
India batted first after being put in by the Proteas, who quickly had the hosts at 62/2 following the dismissals of Rohit Sharma (14) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (22). Virat Kohli (102 off 93 balls, including seven fours and two sixes) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (105 off 83 balls, with 12 fours and two sixes) formed a formidable partnership, adding 195 runs for the third wicket and putting India in a strong position.
Later, KL Rahul (66* off 43 balls, with seven fours and two sixes) and Ravindra Jadeja (24* off 27 balls, with two fours) concluded the innings with a brisk 69-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Marco Jansen was the standout bowler for South Africa, finishing with figures of 2/63.
South Africa's Chase: A Collective Batting Masterclass
The Proteas began their chase aggressively, losing Quinton de Kock early on. However, captain Temba Bavuma (46 off 48 balls, with three fours and a six) and Aiden Markram built a solid 101-run partnership. Markram scored his fourth ODI century and first as an opener, amassing 110 runs off 98 balls, featuring 10 fours and four sixes.
A pivotal 92-run partnership between Matthew Breetzke (68 off 64 balls, with five fours) and Dewald Brevis (54 off 34 balls, with one four and five sixes) shifted the momentum in favor of South Africa.
Despite injuries to Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi easing India's path, Keshav Maharaj (10*) and Corbin Bosch (25*) guided South Africa to a memorable victory with four wickets and four balls remaining.
Arshdeep Singh was India's top bowler with figures of 2/54, while Harshit Rana's performance deteriorated after a poor over, and Prasidh Krishna's disappointing figures of 82 runs in 8.2 overs were crucial in South Africa's win. An exciting decider is set for Saturday.