Sanjay Manjrekar believes India could showcase their best-ever bowling attack in the upcoming Test series against Australia, led by Jasprit Bumrah and the returning Mohammed Shami. As young batting talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill prepare for their toughest test yet, the stage is set for an exciting Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
In an interview with ESPN Cricinfo, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed confidence in India's bowling strength, predicting that the combination of Bumrah, Shami, and Mohammed Siraj will be formidable when the series begins on November 22. He emphasised that if India's batting lineup delivers in Australia, they could replicate their historic 2020-21 series win.
"India has toured Australia before, but this time they might bring their best bowling attack yet. Bumrah is at his peak, and with Shami returning, the seam attack looks exceptional. With options like Akash Deep, India’s pace bowling is in top shape. I believe the Australians will find them a real challenge," Manjrekar remarked.
Shami, who was instrumental in India’s 2018-19 series win, missed the 2020-21 series but last played against Australia in the 2023 World Test Championship final. After undergoing surgery following the ODI World Cup 2023 final, Shami is expected to return in time for the highly anticipated Test series.
Manjrekar also noted that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will serve as a critical test for India’s rising batting stars. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, who have been in excellent form, will face one of the toughest challenges of their careers. Gill, fresh off a century in the Bangladesh Test series, and Jaiswal, who has impressed with consistent performances, are key to India’s success, according to Manjrekar.
"India’s seniors will need to step up, but this series will be a defining moment for players like Gill and Jaiswal. If they perform well, India has a strong chance of another series win in Australia," he added.
With a balanced team and a powerful bowling unit, Manjrekar is optimistic about India’s chances in what promises to be a thrilling series against Australia.