Smith's Confusion Over Bumrah's Limited Role Till 13th Over

The tactics employed by Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya during the recent IPL match against Sunrisers Hyderabad left many scratching their heads, including former Australia captain Steve Smith. Smith expressed bewilderment at the decision to limit premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah to just six deliveries until the 13th over of the game.

In what turned out to be a breathtaking display of power-hitting, Sunrisers Hyderabad set a new IPL record by posting a formidable total of 277/3. Despite a valiant effort from Mumbai Indians, they fell short by 31 runs in a fiercely contested match on Wednesday night.

Bumrah, regarded as one of the finest bowlers in the world, was surprisingly underutilized, conceding 36 runs in his four overs without claiming any wickets. Smith, speaking to host broadcaster 'Star Sports', expressed his confusion over the timing of Bumrah's bowling spells, particularly his absence until the latter stages of the innings.

"I was puzzled by Mumbai's bowling changes in the first innings. Bumrah bowled early on but then disappeared until the 13th over when the damage was already done," remarked Smith. "You expect your best bowler to make an impact, especially during crucial phases of the game."

Smith criticized the delayed reintroduction of Bumrah, suggesting that it rendered him ineffective against the onslaught of the opposition batsmen. He emphasized the importance of adapting to the situation on the field and advocated for Bumrah's earlier return to the attack to disrupt the opposition's momentum.

Reflecting on the high-scoring encounter, Smith acknowledged the extraordinary nature of the game characterized by an astonishing 38 sixes. He also commended Sunrisers Hyderabad's Abhishek Sharma for his impressive innings, describing it as a standout performance.

"Abhishek Sharma showcased his talent with a remarkable innings. Despite not being a physically imposing figure, his ability to strike the ball cleanly was evident. His contribution was truly special," praised Smith.

The match, marked by its explosive batting and tactical nuances, provided a spectacle for cricket fans worldwide, leaving pundits and viewers alike captivated by the sheer excitement on display.