Mumbai Indians fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is considered one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history. Former MI fast bowler Munaf Patel has said that Bumrah does not get the same appreciation as batsmen like Virat Kohli.
Jasprit Bumrah is often regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of modern times. Having performed brilliantly for both India and Mumbai Indians in international and domestic tournaments, Bumrah’s accuracy and efficiency are considered unmatched.
However, Jasprit Bumrah’s form has declined drastically recently in the current season of IPL. Despite playing all four matches for Mumbai Indians, he has not got any wicket, which is a big blow for this top fast bowler.
There is no doubt that Jasprit Bumrah is a star, but there is still a gap – Munaf Patel
The pioneer of India’s fast bowling, Jasprit Bumrah is considered one of the greatest bowlers in modern cricket. However, despite the immense buzz around him, he does not have the widespread influence and stature of legendary batsmen like Virat Kohli.
Former Indian fast bowler and current fast bowling coach of Delhi Capitals, Munaf Patel, offered a candid opinion on the lack of popularity as well as importance of a great bowler compared to his contemporary batsman.
Munaf Patel said, “How can this happen sir? Look at the popularity of Virat Kohli and the popularity of Jasprit Bumrah. There is a difference.”
DC coach worried about lack of pace in India’s next generation of fast bowlers
The conversation soon shifted from individual stardom to the systematic failure to produce fast bowlers in India. He highlighted that developing fast bowlers requires some effort to bridge the gaps in awareness, training and proper guidance.
“If you ask me to find bowlers who can bowl at 125 kmph, I can bring many bowlers. But if you ask for bowlers who can bowl at 140+ consistently, they are very rare,” he said. “And the reality is, if you bowl 140+, you will not be noticed. There is almost no chance.
“It’s really the easiest path right now,” he said. He underlined the paradox in Indian cricket in recent times, saying, “If you are a fast bowler who can hit 135-140+, you can get into the Indian team early. But if you bowl at 125, no matter how much you swing the ball, you will not even be picked in the IPL auction.”
Munaf Patel curses Indian institutions like NCA for lack of fast bowlers
The former Indian star claimed that not much has been done at the grassroots level as institutions do not work hard enough to develop fast bowlers scientifically. Referring to facilities like NCA, Munaf stressed on the need for structured training, which would involve coaches, physical trainers and others who can guide them to increase their speed and also ensure that their body can bear the load.
“You need to understand how to build speed, strength, technique and workload management. Who is teaching this? That should be the focus,” he said.
Munaf’s statements will definitely raise a big question on the future of Indian cricket. While the board is celebrating world-class talent like Jasprit Bumrah, they are also looking to create a sustainable environment for high-quality fast bowlers.
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