MITCHELL JOHNSON: Keeping Jasprit Bumrah as captain over Rohit Sharma could have made a difference in series

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series had everything that makes Test cricket exciting and probably more: thrilling performances, unexpected blow-ups, players being dropped, debuts, a legend’s mid-series retirement, a captain stepping down, record crowds at the grounds, and countless fans tuning in from home.

The significance of the number 9999 added an extra layer to the series, making it even more memorable despite the anguish of Steve Smith and cricket authorities who had organised a celebration of his 10,000th run at the SCG.

Overall, the series truly showcased the essence of Test cricket. It was a captivating battle filled with ups and downs.

The first Test set the tone for the entire series, showcasing both the challenges and opportunities for the teams involved. Australia seemed a bit off their game in Perth, while India, despite coming off a series loss against New Zealand, appeared fired up and eager to make their mark.

Jasprit Bumrah stepped up not just as a fast bowler but also took the reins as captain, making the bold choice to bat first on what many considered a favourable bowling pitch. This decision was a clear indication of India’s positive mindset and may have caught Australia off guard.

While the media quickly picked up on the concerns surrounding the Australian team at 1-0 down, I felt that, despite some hesitations, it was essential to remember that this was a five-match series and there was plenty of cricket still to be played.

And I mentioned to a few cricket buddies that it might have benefited India to maintain Bumrah as captain. This wasn’t meant to disrespect Rohit Sharma, who has a solid record, but I noticed a shift in momentum when Sharma returned with his different leadership style.

It looks like some change might be happening with Indian cricket now, out with the old and in with the new, something the Aussies need to be on top of also.

Eventually, the pressure mounted on Sharma, culminating in either his decision to step down or being dropped by selectors because he wasn’t delivering with the bat.

Australia played the more consistent cricket overall during the series. They were unlucky when rain stopped them at the Gabba and deserved their 3-1 victory.

While Bumrah was a deserved man of the series for his remarkable 32 wickets at 13.06, Australia boasted a bowling attack that didn’t rely heavily on any one individual. Even spinner Nathan Lyon, who was barely used throughout on pitches that generally favoured the quicks, was always ready when required and did his job.

Bumrah took on a substantial bowling load for India and it eventually caught up with him. He seemed to run out of stamina just when India needed that last push in the final match in Sydney. That’s cricket, and it’s crucial for a fast bowler to be prepared for such demands.

It was a close series – with the trophy still up for grabs entering the third day of the fifth Test – and there were moments that could have changed the outcome for India.

Bumrah’s eventual injury likely cost them as Australia chased 162 to win but we can never know for sure.

You could argue that losing Josh Hazlewood had a significant impact on the Aussies as well, but again, it’s hard to say definitively and Scott Boland did a terrific job. The point is, when you lose your best players, it can really change the game.

The timing of Bumrah’s injury was unfortunate for India, and it felt like it deflated them, especially evident in the way they bowled in the last innings.

I believe he would have applied serious pressure to the Australians. However, what’s done is done, and those “what ifs” don’t really matter in the game of cricket.

Smith came close to joining the elusive 10,000 Test runs club. It’s almost like the commentators’ curse was at play during both innings in Sydney, as the atmosphere was electric at his home ground and he would have enjoyed joining the club at home with Australia’s other members – Ricky Ponting, Allan Border and Steve Waugh - all in attendance and ready to join the celebrations.

Needing just five runs in the second innings, Smith was out for four and will have to wait for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle to reach the elusive milestone.