India’s fast-bowling maestro Jasprit Bumrah continues to redefine greatness every time he has the ball in hand, and his latest masterclass at Headingley has left both fans and former cricketers in awe. Following Bumrah’s stunning 5-83, his 14th Test five-wicket haul and third in England, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik took to Instagram to shower praise on the pace spearhead and made a special appeal to the BCCI. “There should be a separate contract for Bumrah — not Grade A, B, C or D — but something more than that!” Karthik said in his video message, echoing the sentiments of millions who watched Bumrah dismantle England’s batting line-up yet again.Calling him a “national treasure”, Karthik didn’t mince words in underlining Bumrah’s importance to Indian cricket. “Whenever India needs a wicket, he delivers. He’s chalk and cheese above most bowlers. It’s his mind more than anything that just ticks as he knows how to pick up wickets,” Karthik said.
Recalling his first memories of a young, shy Bumrah at Mumbai Indians, Karthik marvelled at the bowler’s remarkable journey to becoming a world champion. “When I first saw him at MI a young, thin, so shy and today, just look at him. India needs to wrap him in cotton wool, take care of him. He needs to be there in all the big matches because when he’s there, the bowling attack looks completely different.” Bumrah’s brilliance was the highlight of England’s first innings at Headingley, where the hosts were bowled out for 465, handing India a narrow six-run lead. Despite India’s sloppy fielding as four catches were dropped off Bumrah’s bowling alone, the pacer’s spell ensured the match stayed alive and evened the contest for a thrilling second innings battle.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? Meanwhile, KL Rahul’s calm unbeaten 47 and India’s steady second innings (90/2 at stumps on Day 3, with a 96-run lead) have set up an enticing final two days, weather permitting. As fans hold their breath for another Bumrah special when India defends whatever target they set, Karthik’s call for a ‘special contract’ feels more relevant than ever because, quite simply, there is only one Jasprit Bumrah.
