Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has humorously suggested passing a law that would force India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, to bowl “left-handed or off one step” during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Bumrah, a right-handed bowler widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in the world, has been a constant challenge for Australian batters, taking 30 wickets in four Test matches so far.
Albanese, who hosted both Indian and Australian players on Wednesday ahead of the decisive fifth Test, praised Bumrah’s impact on the series. Speaking lightheartedly, he said, “We could pass a law here that says he has to bowl left-handed or off one step. Every time he has come on to bowl, it’s been very exciting.”
Later, Albanese took to social media to further express his enthusiasm. “The Australian and Indian teams have already given us an incredible summer of cricket,” he wrote. “When the fifth Test starts on Friday, the SCG will be a sea of pink in support of the great work of the McGrath Foundation. Go Australia!”
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir also shared his thoughts on the tour. “Australia is a beautiful country to travel to, but a tough place to tour. The crowds have been amazing. We’ve got another Test match to go, and hopefully, we can entertain the crowd,” Gambhir said.
Australian captain Pat Cummins reflected on his team’s 2-1 series lead as they head to Sydney for the final Test. “The last week in Melbourne is right up there as one of the best Test matches we’ve been involved with,” Cummins said. “Over the five days, I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s a decider, and it’s our chance to win the series. Can’t wait.”
The result of the Sydney Test will determine whether Australia regains the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after more than a decade.
In Melbourne, Bumrah made history as the fastest Indian pacer to take 200 wickets, achieving the milestone in just 44 Test matches.
