I Focus More On My Game Than Selection, Says Rookie Jasprit Bumrah 1
Jasprit Bumrah says he concentrates on his performance and not on his selection.

Jasprit Bumrah, one of India’s brightest prospect to have made his limited-overs debut in 2016, said he isn’t affected by the fame and added he concentrates more on his performance than on anything else to achieve better results in future.

Speaking to Mumbai Mirror recently, the Gujarat born Bumrah was optimistic of his show this year saying he is too young a player to be talked about and also insisted on staying fit for a longer period of time. After making his debut against Australia in the Sydney One-Dayer, Bumrah has bagged 17 wickets in eight ODI games played, the most by an Indian in this calendar year.

“If you say so (laughs). I am happy that I did fairly well. But it is just the start for me. I have just taken the first step. I want to stay fit and play long. I feel, I have a long way to go before I can look back and analyse my performance.”

Bumrah, with his sling-arm bowling action, scalped 28 wickets in T20Is this year, bettering everyone to stand at the top of the list. Impressed with his figures, style and impact, Cricket Australia picked him in their best One-Day eleven recently.

I Focus More On My Game Than Selection, Says Rookie Jasprit Bumrah 2
Jasprit Bumrah of India scalped 28 wickets in 21 matches and was bestowed as the world No. 1 T20 bowler in 2016 by ICC.

“Honestly, I am not too much bothered about recognition nor I am worried what is written about me. There is no doubt that I do feel honored. It is always an honour to be named alongside world’s best. But I don’t get carried away with accolades.”

Talking about his dream to play Test cricket, Bumrah said he focuses more on his performance and not on anything else.

The 23-year-old has picked up 17 wickets in six Ranji matches so far this season, which has helped his team seal a spot in the last four.

“As I said before, I am not bothered by where I get to play. Of course, as a cricketer, I want to play the Test cricket. It is a dream of every cricketer to play the longest format of the game. But when I get a chance to play is something that is not in my hand. As a player, I am prepared for any challenge that come my way. Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game. Yes, I am focused in earning my Test cap. And I am sure, consistent performance in the Ranji Trophy will help me realize my dream. But honestly, I am not worried too much about that,” he concluded.

Gautam Sodhi

I am more than just a cricket lover. I have been breathing this game since I was three, and now I am making a living out of it. Also, FC Barcelona happens to be my second love, and evidently, I prefer...