Virat Kohli believes seamer Jasprit Bumrah has India’s World Cup rivals “clueless” when it comes to playing him.

Bumrah terrorised South Africa in Southampton as the Proteas slipped to a third straight World Cup defeat, with India prevailing by six wickets.

India skipper Kohli hailed Bumrah for arriving in England knowing he is ready to dominate the World Cup, and admitted the Ahmedabad-born paceman has the game’s top batsmen bamboozled.

“He can nick you off on any wicket and he has that belief,” said Kohli. “He’s just going to bowl consistently and can still get you out.

“When you see batsmen clueless against him, and he’s actually rushing people. “To get guys out like that, just rushing them a bit, it’s a great thing and it’s a testament to his hard work.

“He understands that this is his time and he’s making the most of it. He’s going to be a massive factor for us here.”

Rohit Sharma racked up an unbeaten 122 as India coasted to their target, gearing up to face Australia at The Oval on Sunday with a comfortable victory. India launched their World Cup campaign in fine style, restricting South Africa to 227 for nine, with Bumrah to the fore and Yuzvendra Chahal bagging four for 51.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar grabbed a pair of wickets himself and Kuldeep Yadav also claimed a wicket as India fired a warning shot to opponents looking to hit big that they will take some subduing with the ball.

Kohli revealed Bumrah is even striking fear into his team-mates in the nets, but insisted India are relishing such a tough examination in training.

“Facing Jasprit, you have to play good cricketing shots against him and back your technique against him,” said Kohli. “If you’re hesitant, he’s all over you.
“If he senses you’re not enjoying the short ball, he makes sure you get it.

“He will bounce people, york people with the new ball. If you’re not on top of your game, it can be trouble. If you play well against him in the nets, you walk out with more confidence.”

Provided by Press Association Sport