The former Indian medium fast bowler and also a former bowling coach of the national team, Venkatesh Prasad if of the opinion that the Indian pace brigade for the ICC World Cup 2019 has the capability to win India matches individually. The trio led by Jasprit Bumrah also consists of two other world-class bowlers Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Venkatesh Prasad who was the bowling coach of India between 2007 and 2009 stated that each one of the bowlers is capable of winning matches on their own. “Their technical expertise in terms of seam presentation, finish and the sheer pace is simply outstanding. Each one is capable of winning matches on his own.”
Venkatesh Prasad was in awe of Jasprit Bumrah who is currently the No 1 ODI bowler in the world. He further added that the Men in Blue is blessed to have Jasprit Bumrah as the spearhead of the bowling attack.
“Just look at the maturity with which he bowls. Maturity is about knowing the situation, about the batsman’s intentions. He doesn’t get predictable because he has so many options. The pace he generates from a short run-up is brilliant. India is very blessed to have someone like Bumrah.
“He is among the best in the world — in the Powerplay, mid-innings and towards the end,” said Prasad. Both he and Shami should not shy away from using the bouncer because they both can bowl consistently in excess of 140 kmph. Because one new ball is used at each end in 50-over cricket, it is imperative to pitch the ball up early on, around the fourth stump, and try and induce edges. When the ball gets seven-eight oversold, the length should be pulled back just little bit. All three are capable of moving the ball at pace because of the seam position they maintain every ball.”
However, Venkatesh Prasad did state that all both Bumrah and Mohammed Shami can be physically or mentally tired as they have played some much cricket in the past few days and has travelled a lot much time.
“I hope they aren’t physically or mentally tired because of so much cricket and travel in recent times,” he noted. “I also hope neither Bhuvi nor Shami has started to doubt himself because they went for a few towards the end-overs in the IPL. I know the format and the stage are different, but sometimes you start doubting yourself if you are not able to execute your variations. It’s just a small doubt, I am confident they have the experience to not let that affect them.”