Parthiv Patel Advises SKY & Gambhir on Bumrah Usage Before SA T20I

As India gears up for the five-match T20I series against World Cup runners-up South Africa starting December 9 in Cuttack, ex-wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel issued a stark advisory to captain Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir. The core concern: India's recent tactic of deploying Jasprit Bumrah for three powerplay overs, leaving just one for the death phase.​

Patel highlighted this pattern from Asia Cup and Australia tours, stressing careful management. "If they bowl him three overs early, Arshdeep Singh must partner in death overs," he noted on JioStar, calling the series pivotal T20 World Cup audition.​

Hardik Pandya's injury comeback and Abhishek Sharma's form add intrigue to team balance.

Key Highlights

Bumrah Strategy Risk: Powerplay focus limits death-over impact.​

Patel's Advice: Pair with Arshdeep for late overs if front-loaded.​

Series Stakes: Key prep vs SA for 2026 T20 World Cup.​

Pandya Return: Fitness proven in SMAT; vital all-round balance.​

Sharma Spotlight: No.1 T20I batter; top-order runs crucial.​

India's blueprint faces real test—watch Cuttack opener closely.​

Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV Sports, Times of India