India's vice-captain Rishabh Pant has heaped praise on Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the third Test against England at Lord's. With the five-match series level at 1-1, Bumrah is set to return to the XI after being rested for the second Test in Edgbaston.
But while most admire his ability to trouble batters, Pant reminded everyone that standing behind Bumrah is no less of a challenge. Speaking to reporters on the eve of the match, Pant explained what makes Bumrah such a unique asset.
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Not just for India's bowling attack but as a complete package that keeps everyone on their toes, including his own teammates.
Rishabh Pant says keeping to Jasprit Bumrah is tougher than batting against him
Pant was asked what makes Bumrah special. "Everything," he said, with a smile before expanding on the challenges of keeping to him.
"How accurate he is, the way his mind works, I think he is just an amazing man. I think it's more difficult for the wicket-keeper behind the wicket than for a batsman, I guess. Especially in England, the movement he gets," he said.
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Pant also touched on the nature of pitches so far in the series. He pointed out that flatter wickets were always expected, considering England's aggressive batting approach.
"They need good wickets to bat on. We discussed it too, about how to take 20 wickets on such surfaces. Shubman was also talking about it. So the plan was for batters to step up - and they have been doing it gradually," he added.
The next Test at the iconic Lord's is set to take place from Thursday onwards. India will be riding high on confidence after Birmingham win and with the return of their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, they will look to take a lead in the series.