Accuracy, not yorker, makes Bumrah lethal: Malinga

Leeds (IANS): When Lasith Malinga says that Jasprit Bumrah is the best bowler in world cricket at the moment, it is no mean achievement for the India pacer who has been on a roll in recent times. But then, who better than Malinga to judge the boy who he mentored when Bumrah joined Mumbai Indians in 2013.

Speaking to IANS, Malinga said that the best part about the India pacer is his belief in his ability, which helps him beat the pressure of performing on the big stage.

"What is pressure? Pressure means you don't have the skill. If you have the skill, there is no pressure. It is all about skill and accuracy and if you are accurate, you know you can do what you aim to. He is a skilful bowler and knows he can bowl same balls one after the other.

"The thing is anyone can bowl yorkers, slowers and good length balls. But the idea is to have the accuracy. How many times can you hit the same spot? Then comes analysing the game. The handling of situation is what counts, and then comes the application," Malinga explained.

"I saw him (Bumrah) in 2013 and spent time with him. He was hungry to learn, and he learnt quickly. Hunger to learn is very important. Jasprit has shown the character in a short period," he said.

Malinga believes that this Indian team can repeat the feat that the team under Mahendra Singh Dhoni achieved at the 2011 World Cup.

"I think this team can do it as they have shown character. They have experienced players and you know how well Rohit Sharma is playing. Virat Kohli is also due and he might score his first hundred in the semifinal or the final as he loves the big stage. The Indians have a lot of match-winning players and that is what counts," the Sri Lankan ace pointed out.