Before their match on June 12 at the 2024 T20 World Cup, USA all-rounder Corey Anderson disclosed that he has a soft place for India’s top pacer, Jasprit Bumrah. Anderson reminisced on the times he and Bumrah were teammates in the MI Indian Premier League and praised the pacer’s development from a young player to one of the world’s greatest bowlers. The USA team has greatly astonished cricket fans despite entering the competition as the obvious underdogs after winning both of their Group A matches against Canada and Pakistan, respectively.
Particularly after the Monak Patel-led team upset Pakistan in a thrilling super-over battle and players of Indian descent like pacer Saurabh Netravalkar produced a match-winning performance, the match between India and the USA has attracted a great deal of buzz. Corey Anderson has also played in the Indian Premier League for a sizable period. The all-rounder from New Zealand has played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with players like Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli of the Royal Bengal (RCB).
Anderson talked about his time with Bumrah in MI and how much he has enjoyed seeing the India pacer perform over the years in an interview with Star Sports.
“I have a slight affection for Bumrah. It’s incredible to witness him go from being a raw natural talent to one of the best bowlers in the world. I believe I was in Mumbai when he was first presented to MI. It’s interesting to watch that development over time since it demonstrates the topics they discuss at the beginning of their careers and how they acquire experience, Anderson added.
It’s amazing to see him realize his full potential. We will encounter him, and he is capable of causing significant harm. I believe facing him will also be quite interesting.” Anderson continued.
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Despite Bumrah’s impressive form—he has taken five wickets in two games—the USA has not needed Anderson to bat with his typical skill thus far in the T20 World Cup. Supporters of both teams have already praised the game as an intense battle between them.