Discussions have intensified in the cricket circles ahead of the exciting two-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka starting on Saturday at Galle. After star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was out of this series due to injury, many speculations are being made about the Indian bowling attack. Meanwhile, former Sri Lankan all-rounder Farveez Maharoof has given a big statement and termed young fast bowler Gurnoor Brar as the possible 'X factor' of Team India i.e. the trump card. Maharoof believes that Bumrah will definitely be missed, but Gurnoor can turn the match with his speed and bounce.
Bumrah's absence will affect Indian bowling
India have currently slipped to fifth place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table after facing a 0-2 defeat in the home Test series against South Africa. In such a situation, this series against Sri Lanka has become very important for the team. This time the team will take the field without its most reliable fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah.
Responding to PTI's question during a virtual press conference organized by 'Sony Sports Network', Farveez Maharoof said that the way Jasprit Bumrah is adept at reverse swinging the old ball has been the biggest weapon for India. His absence will definitely be missed by the team. He said that Mohammad Siraj is undoubtedly a brilliant bowler, but it will not be easy to completely fill the void of Bumrah.
Why should Gurnoor Brar get a chance in the playing eleven?
Former Sri Lankan all-rounder has praised 26-year-old young fast bowler Gurnoor Brar. He said that Brar's tall stature, extra bounce from the pitch, fast pace and his aggressive attitude make him a perfect 'X factor' for India. Maharoof revealed that during practice matches, Gurnoor had made many of the veteran batsmen of the Indian Test team uncomfortable with his bouncers and pace, with some batsmen even being hit on the body by the ball.
Maharoof also believes that if he were a part of the Indian team management, he would definitely consider giving Gurnoor Brar a chance to make his Test debut. Even though this young bowler has played only limited overs cricket for India till now, he has the amazing ability to spoil the rhythm of the opposition batsmen by bowling short and aggressive spells.
Opinion also given regarding spin department and Galle's pitches
Apart from fast bowling, Maharoof also spoke openly on the spin department. He said that India will also miss the experienced Ravichandran Ashwin and injured all-rounder Washington Sundar, as spinners get not only turn but also extra bounce on Sri Lankan pitches.
Regarding the possible playing eleven, he suggested that Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav are almost certain to play, while left-arm spinner Manav Suthar should be given a chance as the third spinner. According to Maharoof, Manav Suthar's ability to get extra bounce in ball conditions can prove to be very useful for the team. Overall, India can field with a balanced combination of two fast bowlers and three spinners.