Australia's Strategy to Target Bumrah in BGT

Ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin on November 22 in Perth, former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull revealed Australia’s strategic approach to neutralise India's "biggest threat": Jasprit Bumrah. According to Doull, Australia has designed a "clever" schedule that exploits the hardest and fastest pitches, maximising pressure on Bumrah and India’s bowling lineup.

Australia’s tactical move begins with the series opener in Perth, known for its pace and bounce, followed by a challenging Pink Ball Test in Adelaide and a Boxing Day clash in Brisbane. This sequence leverages conditions suited to Australia’s strengths and pushes India to rely heavily on Bumrah. With Mohammed Shami absent, Mohammed Siraj out of form, and Akash Deep inexperienced in Australian conditions, India may struggle for bowling depth as the series progresses.

Doull explained that Australia’s choice of venues was intentional, forcing Bumrah into lengthy spells in high-stakes conditions. "They’re going to ‘cook’ Bumrah," he said, alluding to the physical demands these venues will place on India’s star bowler. Australia hopes this approach will wear him down early, forcing India to adjust. Bumrah, a pivotal figure in India’s historic wins in 2018-19 and 2020-21, has previously excelled in Australia, but with this calculated scheduling, Australia aims to test his endurance and influence on the game.