Jasprit Bumrah is widely regarded as the premier all-format bowler in contemporary world cricket. Consequently, it is not surprising that New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee has expressed high praise for the exceptional Indian pacer, who was recently named Player of the Series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Southee, who contributed to New Zealand's remarkable 3-0 Test series victory in India, believes that Bumrah has improved as a bowler since his injury. The retired Kiwi fast bowler understands the demands of excelling in all three formats of the game.

For those unfamiliar, Bumrah endured a back injury in 2022 that sidelined him for over a year. This recurring back issue has troubled him in the past, causing him to miss a significant portion of the Sydney Test against Australia, which India lost by six wickets.

"His recovery from such a significant injury has been remarkable. To return and arguably perform at a higher level than before is a testament to his talent. He possesses a distinctive bowling action, impressive pace, and exceptional skill," Southee remarked to Hindustan Times.

"The capacity to swing the ball in both directions at a high speed is quite challenging. He has the necessary skill set and a unique bowling style. Moreover, excelling across all three formats is no small feat, and for him to be considered the best bowler in all formats currently is an extraordinary accomplishment," added the pacer, who is set to play for Sharjah Warriorz in the ILT20.

Further commenting on Bumrah, who took 32 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Southee stated, "To overcome a significant injury and return in such a manner is admirable. I enjoy watching him play, and I am eager to see how much more he can achieve in the coming years."

Win against India 'special'

In October and November 2024, New Zealand, under the leadership of Tom Latham, made history by achieving a clean sweep against India in a three-match Test series. On challenging spinning pitches, the Kiwis delivered remarkable performances that left the Indian hosts astonished.

New Zealand secured decisive victories in all three Tests, which took place in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai.

"It was a remarkable journey to be part of. I have visited India multiple times and have experienced some difficult tours. Therefore, to conclude my final tour to India with three victories was truly extraordinary. Winning in such a challenging environment is no small feat, and to achieve it in various ways was particularly impressive," stated Southee.

"The three Test matches were immensely satisfying. This could be regarded as the most significant tour in the history of New Zealand cricket. It is indeed a special moment with an exceptional group of players. This series exemplifies how a small nation like ours can compete against the formidable Indian team and achieve such success," he further remarked.

New Zealand Cricket has been facing challenges as players choose to forgo central contracts in favor of becoming free agents to participate in global T20 leagues. Notable players who have made this decision include Kane Williamson, Jimmy Neesham, and Trent Boult.

Southee expressed his concerns candidly, emphasizing that world cricket faces significant challenges and that administrators need to take decisive action.

"This is one of the primary issues confronting cricket globally at present. While the proliferation of cricket is positive, with numerous prestigious leagues emerging, it is crucial to find a balance with international cricket. This balance is vital for the sport. International cricket encompasses three formats, and managing these across different seasons, alongside the leagues, is complex. I am uncertain what the solution is," Southee commented.

"However, I believe there is potential for both to coexist harmoniously, and we should strive to create a product that is exceptional."

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