Jasprit Bumrah is unplayable at the moment, says Daniel Vettori
What's the story
Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is currently the number one ranked ODI bowler, has made a tremendous impact in the ongoing ICC World Cup. Being the highest wicket-taker for the side so far, he has justified the tag of a match-winner. As he prepares to tackle the New Zealand batsmen on Tuesday, former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori heaped praise on the young pacer.
Unplayable
Bumrah a genuine match-winner
Vettori said that it was in India's match against England that made New Zealand realize that Bumrah is unplayable at the moment. He noted that, England did not go after Bumrah, but rather targeted other bowlers. "They (England) were aggressive against the spinners, against Hardik Pandya and they even got to Mohammed Shami at the death as well," said Vettori.
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Early wickets could be the key to New Zealand's success
"With the ball, they will have to be aggressive right from the outset and bowl to take wickets. If you take early wickets and can get at that Indian middle order, then you have a chance," Vettori wrote in his column for ICC.
Smartness
Vettori backs India's slow start as smart cricket
Vettori also pointed out the fact that the reason why India usually get off to a slow start is that they are smart at assessing conditions. He stated that the slow start, but no early setbacks, allows them to post a big total. "If you don't get to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early, you are going to be in trouble," he asserted.
Deadly Boult
Vettori backs Trent Boult to make impact against Indian batsmen
With Bumrah being India's prime bowler, Vettori backed pacer Trent Boult as New Zealand's key weapon. He also believes that Boult's exposure during IPL would allow him to fare well against Indian batsmen. "They have played each other many times in international cricket and the IPL and he, along with Kane and the coaching staff, will have plans in place," he further noted.
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Great start in opening 10 overs can help Kiwis win
"A three-match losing streak can evaporate pretty quickly with great ten overs at the start. If New Zealand get off to a great start, with bat or ball, the streak will soon be forgotten," Vettori reckoned.
Author's take
New Zealand need to solve Bumrah puzzle
While New Zealand prepare to reel back from three defeats, they would also want to have a plan on how to tackle Bumrah, as well as a strong Indian top-order. The match on Tuesday will be decided by a couple of battles, Boult vs Indian top-order and Bumrah vs Williamson. At the moment, India enter as favorites to seal their spot in the final.