Madan Lal Praises Jasprit Bumrah As A Class Act Who Will Challenge Australian Batters

Madan Lal, a renowned all-rounder for India in both Tests and ODIs, has expressed high praise for fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Lal's admiration stems from Bumrah's exceptional performance in the Perth Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series, where he led India to victory against Australia by taking eight wickets.

In an interview with MyKhel, Madan Lal was visibly moved when discussing Bumrah's potential. "Look at Bumrah's action, some say it's awkward. Come on, you cannot guess what ball Bumrah is going to fire next at the batters. He has a short run-up and produces so much variety, he makes life miserable for the batter. I tell you, Bumrah is a world-class bowler and if he is doing so well now, all credit to how he has worked so hard," said Madan Lal.

Madan Lal emphasised the significance of fast bowling in winning matches. He credited former captains MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli for nurturing fast bowlers. "In my time, fast bowlers bowled seven or eight overs and then the spinners came on. This is where I wish to point out how two of our previous captains and legends, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli have let the fast bowlers grow and flourish. We can see the results now," said Madan Lal.

Lal also reflected on India's 0-3 series loss to New Zealand with frustration. He criticised the decision to prepare spinning tracks instead of sporting wickets that would have suited India's fast bowlers better.

Discussing Bumrah's leadership qualities, Madan Lal expressed excitement about his future prospects as a captain. "He has shown he is a shrewd, thinking cricketer and this is not the first time he was leading the side. Definitely, I see in him potential to be India captain in the future as he understands the game," stressed Madan Lal.

Lal clarified that his comments were not intended to spark a debate between Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah regarding leadership roles within the team.

Memorable Cricket Moments

Madan Lal reminisced about India's historic 1983 World Cup win at The Lord's. He fondly recalled his crucial role in dismissing key West Indies batsmen Desmond Haynes, Vivian Richards, and Larry Gomes during that final match.

The triumph was a testament to India's medium pacers' collective efforts, which played a significant part in securing victory against formidable opponents.

Despite being 73 years old, Madan Lal remains deeply passionate about cricket and continues to be an influential analyst on radio and TV. His unwavering support for Indian cricket is evident even during challenging times.

When Virat Kohli faced criticism three years ago due to poor form, Madan Lal defended him vigorously. "He is just too classy, Kannan," Madan Lal told this writer during a Test match special during a TV show when Kohli was being hounded by critics.

Returning to Bumrah's prowess on the field, Madan Lal predicted further challenges for Australian batsmen in upcoming matches. "Bumrah is really terrific; he can produce the bouncer; he can move the ball in; move the ball out; and fire that yorker so well. He is just class and going to make life miserable for the Aussie batters further in this series," is Maddi Paaji's prediction.

Madan Lal believes that Bumrah will continue his aggressive approach against Australia in future matches. "Wohh naheen chodega Australia ko," gushed Madan Lal in Hindi, hinting at Bumrah's determination as vice-captain in upcoming games like the Pink Ball Test starting December 6th in Adelaide.