As India gears up for their highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour of Australia, Gillespie discussed how these two pace stars will be central to their teams' strategies, presenting relentless challenges to batters throughout the series.
In an interview with the Indian Express, Gillespie commented on the remarkable skills that Bumrah and Cummins possess, both known for their consistency, control, and ability to strike on diverse surfaces. He noted that Bumrah's experience and success on Australian pitches make him a formidable force.
"Their major strength is they are pretty relentless in attacking the batters. They have a good pace, bowl challenging lines and lengths. They are always asking questions about batsmen's technique. They are always making sure that the batsman has to make good decisions or they will get themselves out," Gillespie said.
"They are relentless with their accuracy and discipline can also bowl those unplayable deliveries. Whether it swings really late or it just has that extra half-yard of pace or it just does something off the surface which not a lot of bowlers have," Gillespie added.
Bumrah key name for India
Having played seven Tests in Australia, Bumrah has taken 32 wickets at an impressive average of 21.25 and an economy rate of 2.47. As India's vice-captain for the series, Bumrah's presence and experience will be invaluable in leading India's pace attack.
While Bumrah's role will be crucial for India, Australia's pace lineup, led by Cummins, will present its own trials for Indian batters. With names like Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the mix, Australia's fast-bowling battery is well-equipped to deliver searing pace and movement. Gillespie also pointed to Australia's strong spin contingent, led by Nathan Lyon, which will offer variety and depth in the bowling attack, making things even tougher for India's batting lineup.
In what promises to be an intense contest between two skillful bowling sides, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series will showcase some of the world's finest pace talents, with Bumrah and Cummins leading the charge for their respective teams.