In the current Asia Cup 2025, top bowler Jasprit Bumrah‘s use inside the powerplay overs has been supported by bowling coach Morne Morkel of India. In contrast to the previously employed blueprint, Bumrah has been utilised more frequently in the continental tournament’s powerplay, which has left him with just one over to bowl at the end.
In the opening spell of the latter, Morkel supported the plan to bowl two or three overs of Bumrah.
He claimed that the right-arm pacer was “one of the best bowlers” and that it is usually advantageous for a team to take as many wickets as possible during the powerplay. This can help the Indian team start the game with a lead.
“Look, bowling in the powerplay is a difficult task, but Jasprit Bumrah is among the top bowlers. We also hope to take a wicket with the new ball. In my opinion, you make your life much simpler and the wicket appears to be playing a certain way if you can get 10 down or 6-7 down before the final delivery. It’s no secret that it will spin after the powerplay, and that’s sort of the plan. According to India Today, Morkel said, “So, what a great opportunity for the best bowler to strike for us upfront.”
The golden rule in T20 cricket is to take wickets: Morkel
The necessity of hitting early in the game’s shortest format was reiterated by the former South Africa international. He said that, at least for the time being, Bumrah’s role has changed from that of a death bowler to that of someone who is employed inside the powerplay to take as many wickets as possible.
“We are aware that taking wickets is the most important rule in Twenty20 cricket, and we can achieve this by striking up front and using one of our best bowlers. Depending on what we think will work best that day, that may alter. However, we thought it would be a good chance to give him that role so he could try to hit us first,” he continued.
For those who are unaware, India will play Pakistan in the tournament’s final on Sunday, September 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Prior to the summit match, Bumrah has played four games in the tournament and given up runs at a rate of 7.33.
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