Brad Hodge calls an Indian player 'a nightmare to face'

The Indian team is in a red-hot form and high on confidence as they embark on achieving their first ever Test series win on the Australian paradise. While there have been only limited players who have proved to be highly impactful for the visitors, Brad Hodge concedes Bumrah as “the nightmare” but believes that Pujara’s invaluable runs have made a huge difference.

The Australian counterpart’s horrendous batting performance in recent times have cost them matches majorly. The former Australian batsman has hailed Pujara, batting at No. 3 proving to be the big difference between the two teams. Pujara brought up his second century of the series at Melbourne, the first of which came in Adelaide.

The veteran mentioned that not only Pujara dominated in both of his instrumental innings, but he also valued his wicket by not throwing it away and taken time out of the game. Hodge was also all praises for Pujara as he successfully neutralized Nathan Lyon, who bowled beautifully at both Adelaide and Perth and slated him as the ideal No. 3 batsman.

“Pujara has been the difference between the two sides. Both bowling units have looked strong. Barring the first session in Perth, where Australia piled 112 for the opening stand and Mayank Agarwal in Melbourne, openers have struggled” said the 44- year old as quoted by Business Standard.

“He has not been playing T20 cricket, and instead went to play for Yorkshire. He has done the hard work and is getting the rewards.” The former Kings XI Punjab coach also showered the Indian pace attack, especially Jasprit Bumrah saying that the accuracy of the bowler is outstanding. Being a dangerous bowler and the one who could move the ball both ways is what you need in Test matches.

“Bumrah is a nightmare to face. If you ask any batsman, he is one of the dangerous bowlers to face. He is quick, very accurate and moves the ball both ways which is what you need from a Test match bowler.

Hodge critical of Australian batsmen lacking the perseverance to play the longer format

The Victorian came down hard at his countrymen addressing their poor performance in the third Test in Melbourne. He stated that the batsmen have highly led themselves down. He expected a better batting performance from a team who stood victorious in Perth not too long ago.

“From a batting point of view, this has been a disappointing series. The averages are well down. They simply haven’t been good enough. The technique, the temperament, and the aptitude to play Test cricket has been missing.”

“We have high expectations. We’ve had some serious players in the past including David Warner and Steve Smith. But we are also up against a very good team.” Hodge further said

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