Former England captain Michael Atherton has observed that current skipper Ben Stokes has faced difficulties against Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah's pace during the ongoing five-Test series. Stokes has been dismissed twice in four innings by Bumrah in the first two Tests, with Bumrah managing to clean him up on both occasions.
Speaking to Sky Cricket, Atherton commented, "Picking up the speed of the ball is tough with him (Bumrah), and I’ve noticed with Stokes, even Stokes is an excellent player of fast bowling. He’s hurried with Bumrah."
Atherton pointed out that Stokes has struggled to anticipate the pace of Bumrah's deliveries, which has led to his dismissals. He also noted that Bumrah's deliveries have seemed to keep low, adding to Stokes' challenge of facing him.
Bumrah, who has been in impressive form, has taken 15 wickets in the first two Tests of the series. In the second Test, he returned figures of 6/45 in the first innings, showcasing his skill with an exceptional yorker to dismiss Ollie Pope.
Reflecting on Bumrah's yorker, Atherton admitted that there was little Pope could have done against such a delivery. He described it as "spectacular" and highlighted the challenge it posed for the batsman.
India's victory in the second Test has leveled the series 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting third Test to be played at Rajkot starting from February 15.
(With Agency Inputs)
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