Steve Smith Praises Jasprit Bumrah Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australian batter Steve Smith has lauded Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah as arguably the best across formats ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The series kicks off in Perth on November 22, and Bumrah is expected to be pivotal in India's quest for a third consecutive series win in Australia.

Seasoned Australian batter Steve Smith has extolled Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, calling him arguably the best fast bowler across formats. Smith's praise comes ahead of the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The five-Test series between India and Australia starts in Perth on November 22. India, aiming for their third consecutive series win Down Under, will heavily rely on Bumrah's rare skill set.

''He's a wonderful bowler, whether I face him with the new ball, slightly older ball, or even the old ball. He's got great skills with all of them. He's a great bowler, arguably the best fast bowler across the three formats. It's always going to be a challenge,'' Smith told Star Sports.

The 35-year-old Smith, who has opened for Australia in recent series, is expected to continue in that role against India. With 109 Tests under his belt, he is likely to surpass the 10,000-run milestone, currently at 9,685 runs. Bumrah, who debuted in January 2018, has impressively taken 164 wickets in 37 Tests at an average of 20.51.

(With inputs from agencies.)