Expert Cricket Insight: How Proteas Can Tame Bumrah & Contain Kohli

The announcement of Jasprit Bumrah in India’s Test squad for their South Africa tour has certainly stirred excitement. Although he has yet to play a Test match and has missed first-class cricket for nearly a year, his inclusion is spot on.

Since bursting onto the scene in the ODI and T20I squad in January 2016, Bumrah’s unorthodox fast bowling action injects a refreshing and formidable edge to an otherwise predictable seam attack. He clearly outshines the likes of Umesh Yadav or Mohammed Shami and will likely take up the new ball alongside Ishant Sharma or Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

South African batsmen Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram face a tough task in countering Bumrah’s unique right-arm angle, which while not quite as extreme as Lasith Malinga’s, is still a significant challenge. Particularly on pitches that offer swing and seam movement, Bumrah’s deliveries will test their skills to the fullest.

Hardik Pandya’s inclusion adds further excitement. Rested during the previous Tests against Sri Lanka after requesting the break, he may have lost some rhythm but will return eager to make a mark with aggressive batting and fierce bowling. The Proteas must be prepared for him at both ends.

On the spin front, it’s unfortunate for Kuldeep Yadav, who misses out as India prefers to stick with the reliable Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Two frontline spinners for a tour outside the sub-continent seem sufficient, but Kuldeep will certainly get opportunities when India plays at home again.

South Africa also faces important selection puzzles, such as accommodating the return of AB de Villiers and reintegrating Dale Steyn into the bowling line-up. One thing is clear: Keshav Maharaj should not be sidelined; even if the opposition is comfortable against spin, Maharaj’s presence is vital.

This series will centre on a monumental battle: containing Virat Kohli, who is in sublime form and well on his way to cricketing greatness. On India’s last South African tour, Kohli scored 119, 96, 46 and 11, and he has improved significantly since. The thrilling contest between Steyn and Kohli promises to be a highlight of the series.

The views expressed here are the author’s own and do not reflect the official stance of Hollywoodbets.