India batting great VVS Laxman says he’s concerned by Jasprit Bumrah’s form in New Zealand.
The pace bowler has struggled to have his usual impact at the death following his return from an injury lay-off. India now head into the third and final ODI of the series looking to avoid a rare whitewash. New Zealand already hold an unassailable 2-0 lead going into the final game in Tauranga on Tuesday.
Bumrah’s form a worry for Laxman
It is the form of key bowler Bumrah that is concerning Laxman the most.
The Mumbai Indians man has yet to take a wicket in the current ODI series.
“It must be a cause for concern for India that Jasprit Bumrah, go-to bowler whenever he has needed breakthroughs, has been short of wickets all tour,” said Laxman in his column for the TOI.
“Additionally, his lengths too haven’t been spot-on, which means he hasn’t been able to impose usual pressure. Of course, New Zealand’s batsmen have played him well, with Taylor at the forefront.”
Williamson back to boost the Black Caps
New Zealand’s quest for the whitewash at Bay Oval have been helped by the return of captain Kane Williamson.
He missed the first two ODIs due to a should injury but is back in contention.
“He certainly had a full workout and all is on track. He’s looking good to be ready to play.
“We’ll have one final look at him in the morning and make sure nothing happens overnight,” said New Zealand stand-in head coach Shane Jurgensen.
The Black Caps have also added leg spinner Ish Sodhi and fast bowler Blair Tickner into the squad for the final ODI.
Both men were part the New Zealand A squad which drew the second unofficial Test against India A on Monday.
They did not take part in the final day’s proceedings and have been drafted into the senior squad.
Their inclusion comes with a host of New Zealand players still recovering from injuries and illness.
Mitch Santner, Tim Southee (both stomach bug) and Scott Kuggeleijn (fever) should be back for the third ODI.
