star Indian pacer jasprit bumrahknown for his calm demeanor on the field, surprised fans and pundits with his fiery celebration during the ongoing fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Composite cup usually loaded upright Australian opener Sam Konstas after dismissing Usman Khawaja on the last ball of Day 1, displaying a rare burst of aggression.
Bumrah's reaction sparked debate among cricket fans, prompting the fast bowler to address his approach to aggression during a recent interview with Forbes India. He clarified that while he is an aggressive competitor, he does not believe in misusing punches to get his point across.
“I'm aggressive, but I don't need to abuse”
Talking about his mentality on the field, Bumrah explained that his aggression is reflected in his body language and bowling style, not through verbal confrontations.
“I'm aggressive; only I don't need to go and abuse the batsman,” said Bumrah. “When I was a kid, I saw soccer players on TV screaming and going head-to-head. But when I tried it, I got too aggressive and it didn't work in my favor.”
The 31-year-old said he has consciously worked to control his emotions after realizing the sea crossing was affecting his performance.
“When I'm good and calm, people don't know what's going on in my head. It gives me a mental edge,” he added.
Bumrah's philosophy on aggression
Bumrah believes that bowlers need to be aggressive, especially in modern cricket, which favors striking a lot. However, his version of aggression is more about focus and intent than verbal battles.
“I'm not there to give kicks. I'm there to do my job and make my team win,” he said. “But my way of aggression is different. My body language and the way I run and bowl – that's how I show aggression.”
While Bumrah prefers to stay in his zone, he does not back down when challenged by the opposition.
“I'm not going to lie; it happens But I don't start. When it comes down to it, I don't back down either,” Bumrah explained. “It's very easy for me to start that battle, but I don't do it consciously because I want to stay in my moment.”
Konstas incident: What happened?
The heated exchange between Bumrah and Australian debutant Sam Konstas took place during the final hour of Day 1 at the SCG. The incident started when Khawaja took extra time to settle at the crease, disturbing Bumrah's pace.
Konstas, standing at the non-striker's end, made a comment that caused Bumrah to react. The Indian pacer, known for his composed personality, did not hold back this time.
On the next ball, Bumrah forced Khawaja to edge one to KL Rahul at second slip. His celebratory charge to Konstas added to the intensity of the moment, where Virat Kohli joined in from the slip cordon.
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