Former Australian coach and cricketer Darren Lehmann believes that India’s youngsters are talented enough in them to replace stalwarts skipper Rohit Sharma and superstars Virat Kohli if they decide to retire after the ongoing Border Gavaskar trophy.
He acknowledged the inevitable transition awaiting Indian cricket but was optimistic about the future.
“Look, whenever they decide to give it away and whatever happens in the next few days, they have been great players for India over a long period of time,” Lehmann told PTI in an exclusive interview on Monday.
“We now see younger players starting to step up for India and actually play well at the next level. There is so much depth in Indian cricket I won’t worry too much. Whenever these two guys decide to retire, there are so many youngsters that Indian cricket will be in good stead”, he added.
Lehmann also lavished praise on Jasprit Bumrah, predicting a significant leadership role for the pacer.
“I presume he is the next captain when Rohit finishes. He did a really good job in Perth,” he said.
Bumrah’s extraordinary impact with the ball has drawn comparisons with the likes of Mitchell Johnson during the 2013-14 Ashes.
“I have not seen a bowler have an impact like him in a single series since Johnson. Bumrah already has 30 wickets. He has been outstanding to watch.”
Lehmann singled out Yashasvi Jaiswal as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket. “Oh, superstar. One of the best I have seen. Him and Harry Brook are two next-generation players,” he said.
Jaiswal’s performances in Melbourne and Perth have drawn universal acclaim.
“He played well in Melbourne and was outstanding in Perth. He has come up leaps and bounds on this tour.”
Switching focus to Australia, Lehmann acknowledged challenges but remained hopeful about the future of the Australian attack.
“Look I am not so worried as lot of good kids are coming up. Lance Morris, Xavier Bartlett so there are plenty of them. Spinners are okay and it is the batting that is being tested at the moment. There will some greats and some changes with greats retiring but fast bowling will be good enough. How long they will survive Cummins and Starc time will tell but hopefully they will get to till next Ashes”, he said.
However, he emphasized India’s depth and talent but said that he is done with international cricket and has no plans to comeback as of now.
“Indian team would have been an honour to work with, but I am done with international cricket,” he concluded.
