Bumrah confident in Kohli’s resurgence as India face Australia

Stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah expressed confidence in Virat Kohli's return to form as India gear up to face Australia in the first of five Tests, beginning on 22 November in Perth.

Describing Kohli as "ominous" after witnessing his preparations, Bumrah backed the star batsman to silence critics despite recent struggles.

India head into the series on the back of a 2-0 Test whitewash in New Zealand and their first home series loss in 12 years. However, Bumrah made it clear that the team had moved past the disappointment.

"The beauty about cricket is even if you win, you start from zero, and even if you lose, you start from zero," Bumrah said. "Yes, we were disappointed and down after the tough series against New Zealand, but we are not carrying any baggage. We come with a fresh mindset, different opposition, and you learn from the changes that have happened in our team."

Kohli's form under the spotlight

Kohli's performance has been under scrutiny, with just two Test centuries in the past five years and an average of 15 against New Zealand. At 36, there are concerns about whether one of the game's greatest batsmen is past his best.

However, Bumrah dismissed these doubts, pointing to Kohli's stellar record in Australia, where he averages 54.08 in Tests.

"He is one of the greats of the game," Bumrah said. "He's the utmost professional in our team and has achieved incredible success. One or two series may not go your way, but the confidence he has right now is clear. The way I've seen him train, the signs are ominous."

Uncertainty in the line-up

India's squad remains unsettled heading into the opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal is set to open, but there's uncertainty over his partner, with KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran vying for the role. Compounding matters, number three Shubman Gill is doubtful after injuring his thumb.

On the bowling front, Bumrah confirmed that the team had decided on their combination but would reveal it only at the toss.

Fast bowlers take the lead

The first Test will feature two fast-bowling captains, with Bumrah leading India and Pat Cummins in charge of Australia. Bumrah, stepping into the leadership role in Rohit Sharma's absence, emphasised that he would captain in his own style.

"I love responsibility. I've wanted to do the tough job since I was a child," he said. "I've never followed a copybook plan or model. I trust my instincts and gut, and that's how I've always played my cricket."

With Rohit unavailable following the birth of his second child, the leadership mantle falls on Bumrah. India are determined to shake off their recent setbacks and draw inspiration from Kohli's preparations as they take on their fierce rivals on Australian soil.