Former New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee has made an interesting observation about India's star pacer Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series between India and New Zealand.

Jasprit Bumrah has returned to India's Test squad after being rested for the recent ODI series against the West Indies at home, and he is expected to play a key role in the Test series. Earlier, Mohammed Shami suffers injury amid India comeback talks, misses Ranji match.

Tim Southee makes big statement on Jasprit Bumrah ahead of WTC Tests

Ahead of the crucial WTC Test series, Tim Southee has downplayed the Jasprit Bumrah threat despite his huge impact across the formats. The former pacer believes that New Zealand have done a good job of handling Bumrah in Test cricket.

Southee pointed out that India have never won a Test against New Zealand when Jasprit Bumrah has played. Actually, Bumrah has played five Test matches against New Zealand and taken nine wickets. However, India have lost all five matches, making this a surprising record for one of the best fast bowlers.

He believes the New Zealand batters understand how to face Bumrah's pace and skills in red-ball cricket. New Zealand have also enjoyed a strong record against India in recent Test matches, winning six of their last eight meetings.

New Zealand plays Jasprit Bumrah exceptionally well in Tests: Tim Southee

This will make the upcoming test series an important challenge for India. But the Shubman Gill-led Indian team will now look to change this record as they continue to fight for the 2027 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final berth.

Tim Southee said during a virtual interaction by Sony Sports Network, "I think New Zealand has played Bumrah incredibly well in Test cricket. I don't think Bumrah has played in an Indian team that has beaten New Zealand. So, I think New Zealand plays him exceptionally well in Tests."

Tim Southee picks Mohammed Siraj as India's secret weapon for New Zealand Tests

Southee also praised Mohammed Siraj and believes the Indian fast bowler can be dangerous in New Zealand if he finds the right line and length. He was impressed by Siraj's energy, aggressive approach, and ability to keep running in and bowling with intensity throughout the day.

The New Zealander feels Siraj’s movement, discipline, and fighting spirit could make him a key player in India's bowling attack during the upcoming two-match Test series against the Kiwis.

Southee signed off by saying, “I'm a big fan of Mohammed Siraj and the way he bowls. If he can get his length right in New Zealand, he could be a handful. The energy he brings, the way he runs all day, and the type of bowler he is—there's no reason why he can't have a lot of success in New Zealand conditions. There's a lot to like about him in particular.”

India to play 12 matches in New Zealand

Before the crucial WTC matches, India and New Zealand will play a five-match T20I series starting on October 22. This will be followed by a five-match ODI series beginning on November 4.

The two-match Test series will start on November 19, and India will hope Bumrah and Siraj deliver their best to boost their WTC Final chances, having failed to reach last year.