BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma praises Jasprit Bumrah, calls for team effort after Adelaide defeat

India skipper Rohit Sharma commended Jasprit Bumrah’s performance following the team’s 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the pink-ball Test at Adelaide but emphasized the need for other bowlers to step up. The loss allowed Australia to reclaim the top spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 standings and left the series tied at 1-1.

Bumrah delivered an exceptional performance, claiming 4/61 in the first innings, but Rohit highlighted that success in Test cricket requires a collective effort. “Bumrah will not get wickets all the time; others need to step in. Winning a Test or a series is not about one or two individuals. It’s about everyone sharing the responsibility,” Rohit said during the post-match press conference.

Also See: India vs Australia (IND vs AUS) Series Schedule | India Cricket Matches | Australia Cricket Fixtures

Young pacers Harshit Rana and Nitish Reddy, playing in just their second Test, struggled to make an impact, managing only one wicket between them in 22 overs. Rohit acknowledged the challenges faced by newcomers, adding, “They need confidence, and it’s my job to provide it. When they play a match, they must feel assured.”

Rohit also addressed the importance of managing Bumrah’s workload to keep him fresh for the five-match series. “I talk to him during his spells to assess how his body is holding up. We want him to play all five matches. It’s essential to analyze workload and plan accordingly,” he explained, underscoring the value of strategic planning for the team’s key bowler.

The skipper defended Mohammed Siraj’s on-field aggression during a fiery exchange with Travis Head, whose scintillating 140-run knock was a turning point in the match. Rohit described Siraj’s intensity as a motivating factor but stressed the importance of respecting the spirit of the game.

“There’s a thin line between being aggressive and crossing the limit. As captain, it’s my responsibility to ensure we stay within that boundary. Siraj thrives in such battles, and I back his aggression as long as it respects the game,” Rohit remarked.

Australia’s victory was powered by Travis Head’s explosive century and the bowling brilliance of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. While Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj claimed four wickets each for India in the first innings, the lack of support from other bowlers left the team exposed. Australia comfortably chased a 19-run target on the third day, sealing the win with ease.

With the series level at 1-1, India and Australia will now head to Brisbane for the third Test, scheduled to begin on December 14.