Former Australian cricket coach Justin Langer compared Indian fast bowling sensation Jasprit Bumrah to legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram.
Langer’s comments not only flattered Bumrah but also reignited discussions about the art of fast bowling and the lasting legacy of one of cricket’s all-time greats.
The former cricketer expressed his admiration for Bumrah, drawing parallels between the Indian pacer’s unique skills and Akram’s dominance.
“I would hate to face him. He is like Wasim Akram. To me, he’s a right-handed version of Wasim Akram, and every time I’m asked, ‘Who’s the best player you’ve ever faced,’ I say Wasim Akram,” Langer said.
The 54-year-old’s comments highlight Bumrah’s ability to swing the ball both ways, his remarkable accuracy and his tenacious competitive spirit – qualities reminiscent of Akram in his prime.
Bumrah’s unconventional bowling action, accuracy in delivering yorkers and ability to generate late swing make him a nightmare for batsmen, just like Akram was during his celebrated career.
In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, the right-arm pacer cemented his reputation as one of the best bowlers of his generation.
With 21 wickets in three matches at an astonishing average of 10.90 and a strike rate of 25.14, including two five-wicket hauls, Bumrah has been the backbone of India’s bowling attack.
His excellent performance of 6/76 further highlights his dominance.
Bumrah’s rise as a modern-day great draws inevitable comparisons with Wasim Akram, widely considered the greatest left-arm pacer in cricket history.
Akram’s ability to fool batsmen with late strokes and scorching yorkers is reflected in Bumrah’s approach.
Meanwhile, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is delicately poised at 1-1 after the third Test ended in a rain-affected draw.
India, led by Jasprit Bumrah, clinched the opening Test with a stunning 295-run victory, while Australia responded with a 10-wicket win in the second match.
The decisive fourth Test will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26 to 30.
