Jasprit Bumrah was handed his debut Test cap in the first Test against South Africa in place of more experienced players like Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav. He played in all the matches barring the final T20I due to injury picking up an impressive 23 wickets. However, despite the performances, Windies great Michael Holding had claimed that the Indian would struggle to pick up wickets in England due to his “hit the deck hard” style of bowling.

Before the SA series, most experts had claimed that the Indian batting order would, like always, outshine the bowlers. However, as the series progressed, it was amply clear how far along the Indian bowling unit had come. From Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s devastating spells in the Test series to Kul-Cha’s magical deliveries with the white-ball, it was a tour where the bowlers easily had the upper hand. Arun gave insights about the positives of each and every bowler in the Indian line-up.

"We always knew that Jasprit had potential. He is versatile and can cause trouble for any batsman both with new and old ball.”

When asked about whether Jaydev Unadkat, who was purchased for an astonishing 11.5 crores in the IPL auction, could convert his T20 form into the longer format, Arun replied, “Since I am not a selector, I wouldn't comment whether he should be in the ODI scheme of things but as a coach, my job is to believe that each and every bowler at this level possess the quality and temperament to be successful.”

India have been in exceptional form over the last two years beating almost every team that they have come across. While the batting line up has done extremely well, the bowling unit has stood their ground as well. India already have Bhuvneshwar and Bumrah as their main pace attack but Arun revealed that Shastri and Kohli want at least three back-up options to replace the duo.

In the upcoming Nidahas Trophy, India have rested both their premier pacers and will give the backups a chance to prove themselves on the international stage. 

"Since we have a long season ahead, we have to be ready for any injury or fitness issues. Shardul Thakur has come up nicely and done well in South Africa also. Even Shami and Umesh are very much in contention as they will be playing the Deodhar Trophy (for India A and B respectively)." 

India’s mindset in South Africa was a contrast to the teams of yesteryear who would crumble under pressure. However, even though the Indians lost the Test series in the first two Tests itself, they came roaring back to win eight of the next ten matches across all formats. Arun also gave an insight of what is said behind the closed doors of the Indian dressing room.

"Similarly, Ravi told the boys that think Cape Town or Johannesburg as your home conditions and you will see a change in mindset. And Virat's leadership was exceptional. Any praise is less for him," Arun concluded.

Predict LIVE Cricket Matches happening worldwide today! Play from your mobile anytime, anywhere.

Download NostraGamus here to get ₹20 Joining Bonus FREE!

Predict Matches to Win UNLIMITED PayTM Cash Prizes! Over 4,000 winners daily.