Usman Khawaja calls Jasprit Bumrah the toughest bowler he has faced

Australian batsman Usman Khawaja he expressed relief at not having to face it jasprit bumrah in the last innings of the Sydney Test. Khawaja, who had fallen to Bumrah six times during the series, did not shy away from saying that the Indian pacer is the toughest bowler he has ever faced.

Khawaja on Bumrah’s face: ‘I was just getting Bumrah’

Jasprit Bumrah had a stellar series, taking 32 wickets in five Tests at an impressive average of 13.06. However, a back spasm ruled him out of bowling in the last innings of the Sydney Test, where Australia chased down 162 to win the match and the series 3–1.

Reflecting on the challenge of facing Bumrah, Khawaja admitted to ABC Sport: “I was just getting Bumrah. It’s a shame he got injured but thank God for us. It would have been an absolute nightmare to face him today that wicket. As soon as we didn’t see him out there, we thought, ‘OK, we’ve got a chance here’. He’s the toughest bowler I’ve ever faced.”

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Travis Head echoes Khawaja’s sentiments

Australian middle-order batsman Travis Head, who also battled Bumrah throughout the series, agreed with Khawaja. “I think there were 15 people who were very happy that Bumrah didn’t play today. He’s a great performer, he had an outstanding tour,” Head said.

Head played a crucial role in Australia’s win in Sydney, scoring an unbeaten 34 in a 46-run partnership with Khawaja. His innings helped stabilize Australia’s chase Prasidh KrishnaEarly strikes threatened to derail the hosts.

“I don’t worry too much about the results,” Head said of his contribution. “Two great teams. I just wanted to build a partnership with Usman and we did.”

Bumrah’s impact in the series

Despite missing the last innings, Bumrah was named Player of the Series for his outstanding performance. His ability to trouble the batsmen in varied fields, both in India and abroad, he showed why he is considered one of the best bowlers in the world.

For Australia, avoiding Bumrah in the last innings proved to be a turning point. Both Khawaja and Head acknowledged the psychological boost they received from not having to face him during the crucial chase.

The boss reflects on a grueling series

Head also spoke about the intensity of the five-game series and the toll it took on the players. “The last series here, they played exceptionally well. Even in Perth, they put us on the back foot,” he said.

He concluded by discussing his plans before the next tour of Sri Lanka. “I am shattered. I don’t know what I will do for the next 10 days. I will take care and prepare for Sri Lanka.”

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