Former Australian cricketer and head coach Darren Lehmann has made a striking assertion, placing India's Jasprit Bumrah above renowned bowlers such as Wasim Akram and Glenn McGrath. Bumrah, often hailed as the premier all-format bowler of the contemporary era, has been exceptional in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, having claimed 30 wickets in the first four Tests, significantly leading the wicket-taking statistics. He has been the cornerstone of the Indian bowling attack, consistently delivering outstanding performances throughout the series.

Lehmann expressed his belief that Bumrah is the finest bowler he has ever witnessed and suggested that he is poised to succeed Rohit Sharma as captain.

"I believe he (Bumrah) will be the next captain once Rohit steps down. He performed admirably in Perth. He is the best bowler I have ever seen in person," Lehmann stated to PTI.

A member of the 1999 and 2003 ODI World Cup-winning squads, Lehmann noted that while he has faced the likes of Akram and played alongside the great McGrath, none have made the same impact in a single series as Bumrah has.

"I have encountered Wasim Akram, Glenn McGrath, and others, but I have not witnessed a bowler make an impact in a single series like Jasprit Bumrah has, reminiscent of Mitchell Johnson during the 2013-14 Ashes series."

"This is quite similar, as Bumrah has already taken 30 wickets. He has been a joy to watch and will excel when given the opportunity to lead India."

Australia's batting future a concern

Lehmann expressed concerns regarding the transition in Australia's cricket team, particularly highlighting the batting lineup as a potential issue, rather than the bowling department. He acknowledged the presence of experienced bowlers such as Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser, all of whom are in their early to mid-30s.

"I am not overly concerned about the bowling, as there are many promising young talents emerging, including Lance Morris and Xavier Bartlett from Brisbane Heat. The spinners are performing adequately, but it is the batting that is currently under scrutiny," Lehmann remarked.

"While we can expect some changes with the retirement of notable players, the fast bowling unit will remain strong. The longevity of Cummins and Starc in the team is uncertain, but I hope they will be available for the next Ashes series," he concluded.

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