Steven Smith Hails Jasprit Bumrah as Best Fast Bowler Across Formats

Australia's Steven Smith has lauded Jasprit Bumrah as the best fast bowler in all three cricket formats. Bumrah's recent performances, including a stellar display against Bangladesh, continue to garner praise. With over 400 international wickets, Bumrah remains a formidable force ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy.

Australia's experienced batter Steven Smith has labeled Jasprit Bumrah as the best fast bowler in all three formats of the game. Smith's praise comes as Bumrah continues to demonstrate his exceptional skills, recently playing a crucial role in India's success in the T20 World Cup.

During India's emphatic 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai, Bumrah set the pace early with a four-wicket haul in the first innings. He further tormented Bangladesh in the second innings, breaking a promising 62-run opening stand. As the Border Gavaskar Trophy approaches in November, Bumrah is keen to fine-tune his preparation for the highly anticipated series.

Smith remains cautious of Bumrah's threat on Australian pitches. "He's a phenomenal bowler, whether it's with the new ball, the slightly older ball, or even the old one. His skills are exceptional with all of them. He's arguably the best fast bowler across the three formats, and it will always be a challenge," Smith told Star Sports.

Bumrah's prowess has been acknowledged both by opponents and former Indian cricketers. After his seamless performance in Chennai, Sanjay Manjrekar described Bumrah as a bowler without any weaknesses. "His variations, strategic thinking, and even some aggression in his bowling are remarkable. Whatever the opposition or pitch conditions, Bumrah shows no weakness. Indian cricket is fortunate to have him," Manjrekar told ESPNcricinfo.

Adding to his accolades, Bumrah recently reached the milestone of 400 international wickets, becoming the 10th Indian bowler to do so. Over 196 matches, he has taken 401 wickets at an average of 21.01, with his best figures at 6/19. He is only the sixth Indian pacer to achieve this feat.

In 37 Test matches, Bumrah has claimed 163 wickets at an average of 20.49, including ten five-wicket hauls. In 89 ODIs, he has taken 149 wickets at an average of 23.55, with his best figures of 6/19. His T20I record includes 89 wickets from 70 matches at an average of 17.74, with the best figures of 3/7. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)