India bowling coach Morne Morkel has opened up on Jasprit Bumrah’s importance to the national side and the pressures that come with being a world-class fast bowler.

The former South Africa quick did not hold back in his praise, calling Bumrah the best fast bowler in world cricket while also acknowledging the mental and physical burden that accompanies such stature. According to Morkel, India often looks to Bumrah to produce a match-winning spell, a responsibility that can weigh heavily even on the very best.

“Jasprit is the best bowler in the world. But at the end of the day, everybody needs somebody to talk to. There’s always a lot of expectation on him to go and bowl that magical spell and win the game for us. Sometimes, that burden can take its toll,” Morkel said.

Drawing from his own experience as one of South Africa’s finest pacers, Morkel stressed the importance of honest communication, even with elite players. He revealed that he regularly checks in with Bumrah to ensure clarity and comfort around team plans.

“Having played the game and knowing a lot of the greats I played with, we all need somebody to communicate with. I always check in with Bumrah to make sure he’s comfortable and agrees with the plans we’ve made. He’s like a Ferrari, if the engine, oil and running are right, the car will perform,” he added.

Meanwhile, Bumrah recently completed a decade in international cricket, having made his debut in Australia in 2016. Reflecting on the milestone after the third T20I against New Zealand, the pace spearhead spoke about the journey and the challenges he has overcome.

“It feels really good. As a child, I only dreamed of playing one game for India. Playing for 10 years, especially as a fast bowler, fighting aches, pains, assumptions and opinions, is something I’m really proud of. When people first saw me, I was not supposed to play for long; some even gave me six months. So this is a feather in my cap, and hopefully the journey continues,” Bumrah said.

The 32-year-old marked the occasion in style, producing a superb spell of 3 for 17 to earn the Player of the Match award in the third T20I against New Zealand.