Former Australian cricketer Simon Katich has urged Australia’s batters to adopt a strategic approach against India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah, emphasising the importance of rotating the strike and maintaining a strong defence. Katich highlighted Bumrah’s exceptional control and rarity of loose deliveries, advising against over-aggression when facing him.
Speaking on SEN 1116, Katich remarked, “I know all the talk is around having more positive intent, and I think that’s all well and good, but against someone like Bumrah, intent isn’t about blazing him for fours. It’s about rotating strike and defending well. You’re not going to play with intent if you’re not there after the tenth over. That’s the challenge for all of these guys.”
Katich pointed to Australia’s second innings collapse in Brisbane as a cautionary tale, where an aggressive approach backfired. “Australians came out with positive intent but look what happened – 80 for 7 in no time. Against a red ball moving off the seam on a wearing wicket, you’ve got to be mindful of how you approach it. Bumrah’s control and length make it tough to score if you try to take him on recklessly,” he added.
Australia have made a bold selection decision for the remaining Tests, replacing opener Nathan McSweeney with teenage sensation Sam Konstas. While acknowledging Konstas’ potential, Katich underlined the challenge he faces against Bumrah’s world-class bowling. “I know the young kid’s got a lot of potential, but it’ll be a challenge. Not many players have been able to handle that quality of bowling, especially under such conditions,” he said.
Katich also raised concerns about Mitchell Marsh‘s fitness, suggesting the all-rounder should make way for uncapped Beau Webster in the Boxing Day Test. Marsh has been dealing with recurring back stiffness since September, limiting his ability to bowl significant overs in the series.
“In Perth, Marsh bowled well on day one, but since then, he hasn’t been able to back up. He only bowled two overs after Josh Hazlewood went down in Brisbane. That indicates something’s not 100% right,” Katich noted, adding that Webster has earned his spot in the squad with consistent performances for Tasmania.
“Beau Webster deserves his spot. He’s a genuine all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. Given Marsh’s current limitations, Webster should be considered for the Boxing Day Test.”
