Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has underlined the importance of Jasprit Bumrahs return, Hardik Pandyas role and Abhishek Sharmas promising form ahead of the five-match T20I series between India and South Africa starting December 9. After a commanding 2-1 win, the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Bumrah, who was rested for the ODIs, is set to rejoin the squad for the T20Is. Speaking on Jiostar, Patel emphasised that the upcoming series holds significant value for India, particularly when facing a strong South African side that finished as runners-up in the recent T20 World Cup.
It will be good preparation. There are a few things Im looking forward to. Number one is how India uses Jasprit Bumrah. India has utilised his three overs in the Powerplay since the Asia Cup, and even in the Australia tour, that was the strategy. If they bowl him for three overs in the Powerplay, he only has one over left for the death, which is the 19th over. So, India will have to use him carefully. If they want him to bowl three overs early, then Arshdeep Singh has to partner Bumrah in the death overs , Patel said.
