'I try to focus on the job at hand' - Jasprit Bumrah sheds light on his silent celebrations

Since his Test debut in 2018, Jasprit Bumrah has quickly risen to be the spearhead of India’s pace bowling attack. The right-arm bowler has been terrific with his skills and has been a top contributor for his team across the world. Bumrah has often been seen by many cricketing pundits and former players as someone who possesses the ability to be a potential leader. This school of thought was reiterated when the 28-year-old was named India’s vice-captain for both the T20I and Test series against Sri Lanka in the absence of KL Rahul.

The new role would certainly bring with it an added responsibility for the fast bowler, however, Bumrah looks at it as just an extension of his existing role in the side. He believes the position is just a post and as a senior member of the team, one is always expected to be able to help other players.

“I don’t look at it as a particular position, like a spinner or a fast bowler, or that batter is a leader. As a senior member of the team, you have to help the players in whatever capacity you can. As I have spoken earlier For me it is just a post. Yes, it is a great opportunity that has presented itself, and I am very happy to do that,” Bumrah said in a virtual press conference ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka.

Jasprit Bumrah sheds light on his muted celebrations

Bumrah who initially into his career was seen celebrating his wickets extensively has toned the celebrations down in the recent past. Speaking on the same, the bowler commented that as a young cricketer he used to celebrate a lot, however, he now does realize that there is enough time to celebrate post the game and his focus lies more on what he is assigned to do on the field.

“Jab main chhota tha main bahut celebration karta tha, overexcited hota tha aur main actually plan bhi karta tha apne celebrations (When I was young, I used to celebrate a lot. I used to get overexcited and actually plan my celebration).”

“So I try to focus on the job at hand and yes when the game is over and the team has won then there’s ample time to celebrate. So till the time my job is not done, my focus is on making the team win,” he added.

India would be taking on Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series starting March 4th. The team is to be led by newly-appointed captain, Rohit Sharma.