Jasprit Bumrah’s Early IPL Days: Hussey Recalls Warning Over Sledging
Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah is now one of the best bowlers in the world. He has come a long way since his early days in cricket. Bumrah is known for his calmness and skills. But, he wasn’t always the composed bowler fans see today. Former Australian cricketer Michael Hussey shared an incident from Bumrah’s early IPL career. The pacer was warned for sledging legendary batter AB de Villiers.
Speaking on the Willow Talk Podcast, Hussey recalled how Bumrah, then a rising star for the Mumbai Indians, gave de Villiers a fiery send-off during a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2014. The incident left de Villiers visibly irked, prompting Hussey to intervene.
“Dismissing a Batter is the Biggest Sledge”: Hussey’s Advice to Bumrah
Hussey, a senior IPL player at the time, warned Bumrah after the incident.
“He started his journey from the IPL. I remember having a conversation with him during his early days. He dismissed AB de Villiers and gave him a big send-off, which irked the batter. He stared at him, and I pulled Bumrah aside and warned him that he shouldn’t be doing that,” Hussey told Willow Talk Podcast.
Hussey emphasized that a bowler’s skill and talent are enough to earn respect. “Getting the wickets should be enough for a bowler with talent and skills. Dismissing a batter is the biggest sledge, and you don’t need to give send-offs if you want to be respected by other players,” he added.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Rise to Legendary Status
Bumrah’s journey, from the early IPL days to a global cricketing icon, is remarkable. In the series against Australia, Bumrah has been India’s best. He took 21 wickets in three Tests, keeping the team in contention.
In the first Test, Bumrah’s eight-wicket haul powered India to a dominant 295-run victory. His ability to deliver under pressure has made him a nightmare for batters in all formats.
With 53 Test wickets in Australia, Bumrah is now a top bowler. He is among the most lethal in the modern era. Across his 43-match Test career, Bumrah has taken 194 wickets since making his debut in 2018.
Hussey on Early Doubts About Bumrah
Hussey admitted there was skepticism about Bumrah’s unusual bowling and run-up. Some doubted the pacer’s ability to succeed in longer formats. However, Hussey always believed in Bumrah’s talent and adaptability.
“People were not sure of his success because of his bowling action and run-up. They say he will not be able to play Test cricket. However, I always thought that he is going to be successful across formats becaise of his skills and ability.”
Hussey also praised Bumrah’s character, describing him as a grounded and consistent individual. “Bumrah is a down-to-earth guy, and I love watching him bowl. He is a great guy and consistent with his character. He doesn’t get too emotional,” he added.
Jasprit Bumrah’s rise from a raw IPL talent to a world-class bowler and leader of India’s attack shows his hard work and adaptability. His sledging incident with AB de Villiers reminds us of his early learning curve. But, Bumrah has since matured. He is now a calm, focused cricketer admired by fans and opponents alike.
Bumrah’s success in the series against Australia inspires young cricketers worldwide.
