I never said that Jasprit Bumrah was not a good bowler: Abdul Razzaq

Former Pakistani all-rounder Abdul Razzaq recently addressed his controversial statement about Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, whom he had previously referred to as a 'baby bowler.'

Razzaq clarified his remarks during a TV show, explaining that his words were taken out of context. He stated that he commented in response to a comparison between Bumrah and legendary fast bowlers like Wasim Akram and Glenn McGrath.

"I have played against great bowlers like Glenn Mcgrath and Wasim Akram, so Bumrah is a baby bowler in front of me, and I could have easily dominated and attacked him," Razzaq had then said to Cricket Pakistan.

In response to his earlier comment, Razzaq emphasised that he never claimed Bumrah was not a good bowler and that his statement was blown out of proportion. He further mentioned that when he was new in the team, he was also considered a "baby" compared to Wasim Akram. Razzaq blamed the Indian media for manipulating the meaning of his statements.

"Maine ye kabhi nhi kaha ki Bumrah acha bowler nhi hai. Par jab aap unhe Wasim Akram, Glenn MacGrath see compare karenge to unhe baby bowler na kahu to aur kya kahu. Jab main team main aaya tha, main bhi bachcha tha Wasim Akram ke samne. India ne ye agenda chala hai, wo humesha chize ghalat samajhte hai,' said Razzaq on Geo Super Tv SHow.

("I never said he was not a good bowler. My statement was blown out of proportion. When you compare Bumrah with Glenn McGrath, Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar, what would I call him else? When I was new in the team I was also a baby in comparison to Wasim Akram. Indian media started the agenda as they always manipulate the meaning of statements.")

Jasprit Bumrah, who had been recovering from an injury, made a brilliant comeback during the Asia Cup 2023, showcasing his exceptional bowling skills. In the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, Bumrah has been outstanding, taking an impressive 14 wickets in six matches with an average of 15.07. His remarkable performance has played a crucial role in India's success in the tournament, placing him second on the list of top wicket-takers, behind Shaheen Afridi and Adam Zampa, who have both claimed 16 wickets each.

Bumrah's career statistics are truly remarkable. He has secured 128 wickets in 30 Test matches, 143 wickets in 84 ODIs, and 74 wickets in 62 T20Is. In the IPL, he has showcased his prowess in 120 matches, taking an impressive 145 wickets.

Abdul Razzaq's clarification sheds light on the context of his earlier statement and highlights the undeniable talent and skill of Jasprit Bumrah, who continues to excel on the global cricketing stage. As the ODI World Cup 2023 goes ahead, cricket fans can expect more impressive performances from the premiere Indian pacer.