Jasprit Bumrah has always been one of Mumbai Indians’ go-to bowlers but in high-pressure games, he often turns into something even more special.
That’s exactly what happened in the Eliminator against Gujarat Titans where Bumrah’s composure and accuracy helped MI clinch a 20-run win and book their spot in Qualifier 2. Bowling at a stage when GT were clawing their way back into the contest, Bumrah took a crucial breakthrough.
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He dismissed Washington Sundar and broke a dangerous 84-run partnership with Sai Sudharsan. It was the turning point Mumbai needed and once again, it was Bumrah delivering under pressure.
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What did R Ashwin say about Jasprit Bumrah?
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was quick to sing Bumrah’s praises after the game. Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin repeated a phrase he has used before to describe Bumrah in the T20 format.
"This game could have gone even closer if Jasprit Bumrah's over didn't happen. The asking rate was like 12, 13, 14 but he gave like 7 or 8 runs in his last two overs… I had tweeted during the T20 World Cup that Bumrah is a cheat code in today's T20 cricket. Have you ever played this Road Rash, NFS game? It's a cheat code," said Ashwin.
Ashwin also pointed out how Bumrah makes life easier for captains. He credited Bumrah's skillset for elevating even an average tactical plan.
"In today's world, as a captain, sometimes I feel Jasprit Bumrah makes a captain look better than they actually are. The way he nails those yorkers, changes up his slower balls," he added.
Bumrah’s numbers this IPL speak volumes. With 18 wickets from 11 innings at a stunning average of 15.33 and an economy rate of 6.36, he has been at the heart of Mumbai’s campaign.
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As MI prepare to face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on June 1, Bumrah’s form could once again be the difference.