Jasprit Bumrah is a product of India’s fast-bowling revolution, admired for his unique action and deadly yorkers. But for former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, Bumrah’s rise is defined just as much by character as by his craft.
“Two things stood out about Bumrah right from the start of his career – his willingness to learn and his flexibility,” said Rhodes, who was part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) setup as its fielding coach from 2009 to 2017.
“When he came on for his debut (against RCB in 2013), he got hammered in the first over or two, then he got Virat Kohli out, and from there he really flew,” recalled the 56-year-old.
Rhodes believes mentorship played a key role in Bumrah’s development, especially with Sri Lankan legend Lasith Malinga in the dressing room. “He had Malinga in the team, one of the best guys in the world to learn from, especially for those shoe-breaking, toe-breaking yorkers.”
“Everyone talks about [facing] Malinga, but Bumrah’s release point just makes it slightly more awkward for the batter. That one per cent edge is sometimes all that you need,” said Rhodes, speaking on the sidelines of the Asian Surfing Championships 2025 in Mahabalipuram.
He also credited MI’s scouting system, led by John Wright, for identifying stars like Bumrah and Axar Patel. But, as Rhodes pointed out, in India, finding talent is only half the challenge; managing it is the real test.
India’s Talent Puzzle
“India’s biggest disadvantage is the fact that they’ve got so many players,” Rhodes said. “It’s not just the Indian Premier League (IPL). Every state has its own leagues and competitions. Young players are getting so many platforms to showcase their skills.”
Having coached in 15 of the 18 IPL seasons to date, Rhodes has seen how this talent pipeline has become both a blessing and a burden. This growing pressure from the bench also puts selectors in a tough spot.
“It’s a great opportunity, but how do you leave out players like Rohit Sharma and Kohli? It’s always difficult to know when to retire,” he said. “You’ve got these young prodigious players coming through. It’s not about losing players; it’s about keeping the system moving,” he added.
Test Cricket’s Evolution
Rhodes also believes that this generational overlap is most visible in Test cricket — a format once considered under threat, but now enjoying a new wave of enthusiasm.
“When T20 first started, people thought Test cricket was at risk,” he said. “But look at it now. The skill level has only gone up. Everyone talks about Bazball, but honestly, everyone’s playing that way now.
“You’ve got guys ramping the ball for six in Test matches, playing reverse sweeps. Rishabh Pant is getting himself into all sorts of interesting positions at the crease. It’s thrilling,” he said.
For Rhodes, what truly proves the format’s enduring relevance is how competitive it has become again.
“If a five-Test series comes down to day four of the fifth Test, that’s exactly what you want to see. Every match has had its swings, and that’s what keeps people watching. It’s not a slow burn anymore. It’s edge-of-your-seat stuff.”
South Africa’s ICC Triumph
Even after years spent immersed in Indian cricket, Rhodes remains deeply connected to South Africa’s journey. Rhodes says the Proteas’ recent World Test Championship (WTC) triumph in June brought a personal sense of satisfaction.
“It’s been a long time. I spent over a decade with no trophies. So, I’m very happy,” he said. “There was criticism about who South Africa played, but the reality is, we don’t get to play Test cricket that much.”
“And if it’s not against Australia, India, or England, it’s hard to make it sustainable. Test cricket is big business. So, to win an ICC trophy with limited preparation is an incredible achievement.”
