India vs Sri Lanka: Jasprit Bumrah, Team India's Test vice-captain

Jasprit Bumrah said on Tuesday his role as a senior member of the side was well-defined irrespective of the vice-captaincy. “I don’t look at it as a particular position, (or) that a bowler or a batter is a leader. As a senior member of the team, you have to help the side in whatever capacity you can. For me it is just a post.

“Yes, it’s a great opportunity that has presented itself and I’m very happy to do that. It depends on how you handle the situation and how tactically strong you are,” Bumrah said, adding, “So I’ll try to help Rohit (Sharma, Test captain) in whatever way I can.” Bumrah, who made his Test debut in 2018 under Virat Kohli, wished his former captain the best ahead of Kohli’s landmark 100th appearance in the longest format. The pacer called it a reflection of the legendary batter’s dedication.

“It (100th Test) is always a special achievement for a player. You know it is a testimony to his hard work, dedication...(playing) 100 Test matches for your country is a great occasion and he has contributed a lot to the success of the Indian team and will contribute a lot more in the future as well,” Bumrah said. “It is another feather in his (Kohli’s) cap. I just wish him the best and congratulate him for the achievement.”

Jasprit Bumrah (ANI Photo)Asked if the team has planned on anything to gift Kohli on the momentous occasion, Bumrah said, “If the Indian team wins, then there is no best (sic) present than that. But he (Kohli) as a cricketer would like to give his best.” The Test was initially supposed to be played without crowds until the organisers relented and allowed 50% attendance. “(If) the crowds come, it is good for the energy, but that is something that we cannot control. We don’t have any power