The BCCI recently announced the 15-man Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The T20 World Cup 2024 is being co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA. While the batting line-up boasts massive names like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav, there is a question hanging over the bowling attack, mainly over the pace department. Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal, a key member of the 1983 World Cup winning team, has expressed his issues regarding the pacers selected.
Madan Lal’s number one concern is the lack of robust support for Jasprit Bumrah. In an interview, he said, “I just don’t like the pace attack. Apart from Jasprit Bumrah, it’s not right now.” He spoke of how Mohammed Siraj has shown flashes of brilliance, his performances on the global stage have not always been spectacular. This, in line with Lal, creates an over-reliance on Bumrah for wickets and healthy winning spells.
“It’s not the best in T20 cricket, you need a great temper who can take wickets for you to win innings,” Lal pointed out. He highlighted the historic significance of the amazing pace attack for India’s fulfillment and quoted, “Only then did they win a series of overs.”
India’s squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 announced
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— BCCI (@BCCI) April 30, 2024
His concerns go beyond Jasprit Bumrah’s support. He expressed doubts about the effectiveness of Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya in a pure bowling position. He said, “But I’m not sure about Arshdeep anymore, nor am I sure about Siraj. Pandya is not that powerful either. I guess the group control took a chance on him.”
This loss of confidence in the pacers of choice is evident in Lal’s statement: “When I look at the bowling side, I don’t have much faith in it anymore.”
Madan Lal proposed an alternative to the opportunity – Thangarasu Natarajan, a top bowler from Sunrisers Hyderabad who delivers perfect yorkers in the death overs. He believe that Natarajan’s experience and consistency in dealing with difficult situations make him a valued choice. “If I had a hazard (to pick one), I might pick Natarajan. I might vouch for him because he is a great death bowler,” stated Lal.
So is Madan Lal right to be worried?
Lal’s concerns have merit. While Bumrah’s presence is comforting, a strong supporting bowler is critical for consistent performances, especially in high-pressure matches like the World Cup. Injuries or days off for Bumrah could expose vulnerabilities in the attack.
However, selectors may have their motives. Arshdeep Singh, a rising star, has pace and swing ability. Siraj, despite his inconsistency, has shown flashes of brilliance and his revelry in far-out situations can be valuable.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of a pace attack will depend on individual performances. Siraj and Arshdeep will look to step up and provide consistent wicket-taking options alongside Bumrah. Hardik Pandya’s health and bowling efficiency will also be a crucial component.
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