“Getting the wicket of Joe Root or James Anderson is the same for me”: Umesh on dismissing in-form England captain

Umesh Yadav was the pick of the Indian bowlers in the first innings at The Oval.

Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India fast bowler Umesh Yadav on Friday said getting the wicket of England captain Joe Root on Day 1 was the same as picking Ollie Robinson or James Anderson. The fast bowler from Vidarbha made a brilliant comeback into the test side with three crucial wickets in England’s first innings at the Oval.

“This is a very common question I face whenever I get a big wicket. As a fast bowler wickets are important for me be it Joe Root or Robinson. So, I think as a fast bowler picking up a wicket is more important be it any player. That is it for me,” said Umesh during the virtual press conference after Day 2 of the fourth test match.

The England skipper has undoubtedly been the best batsman of the series. He has been a real thorn in the flesh for the visitors.  However, he was undone by Umesh Yadav who arguably produced the ball of the series so far. The in-cutter from Umesh got through the defence of England captain.

Umesh last featured for India in a Test match against Australia in December 2020. The fast bowler showed no signs of rustiness. In fact, he was the pick of the bowlers for India, claiming three wickets.

On being asked about his preparation ahead of his comeback in the team, Umesh said, “You will always be a part of the team and you are always practicing or training in the nets so the rhythm is always there. Moreover the trainers and physios know that you might get an opportunity anytime so they make sure to keep you in that particular zone always by making you work hard and ensure you are in the rhythm. We know that we are here to represent the nation and hence ensuring that we give our best shot as a team is very important.”