Australian fast-bowling great Glenn McGrath has thrown his weight behind Jasprit Bumrah, calling him a “big-game player” and backing the India spearhead to deliver in the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup against England at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on March 5.
Bumrah once again showcased his temperament under pressure in India’s virtual quarter-final against the West Indies at Eden Gardens. With the Caribbean side threatening to seize control, the right-arm quick produced a decisive over, dismissing the in-form Shimron Hetmyer and the well-set Roston Chase in the 12th. The double strike broke the backbone of a powerful middle order and paved the way for India’s five-wicket victory, sealing their passage to the last four.
McGrath believes it is precisely these moments that bring the best out of the 30-year-old.
“I think Jasprit is a big-game player. Sometimes in the big games, these players lift from their normal game. Not saying the focus is not there, but they really love those big moments, big games. I’ve got total faith in Bumrah when it comes to big matches,” McGrath said.
With India entering the knockouts as strong contenders to defend their title, McGrath urged the team to embrace the pressure that accompanies high-stakes cricket. India appeared to find top gear in their final Super 8 matches, particularly in the must-win clash against the West Indies, after a convincing outing against Zimbabwe.
Few understand the demands of global tournaments better than McGrath. A key member of Australia’s dominant sides that won three consecutive 50-over World Cups in 1999, 2003 and 2007, the former fast bowler said pressure should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a burden.
Speaking at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, where he serves as director, McGrath reflected on how great teams elevate themselves on the biggest stage.
“You enjoy it. You just bring it back to its simplest form. The team I played in, I just felt our danger period was getting to the final. Once we were in the final, I thought the game was all over. I think the team likes pressure. They like challenges. They’re up for it,” he said.
He added that elite players are defined by how they respond when the stakes are highest.
“In the final, the big game, the best teams in the world, the best players, that’s where they perform. For me, the reason you went to a World Cup was to play in the final and win the final. All the matches leading up to it were just things you have to do to get there. You focused, switched on and enjoyed the pressure.”
As India prepare for a high-octane semi-final in Mumbai, the spotlight will once again be on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
T20 World Cup | T20 World Cup Schedule | T20 World Cup Points Table | T20 World Cup Videos | Cricket News | Live Score
