Team India’s fast-bowling sensation Jasprit Bumrah returned to international cricket in dynamic fashion after recuperating from an injury that had him sidelined for almost a year. His triumphant comeback, marked by his performance in the Ireland T20 series, segued into a splendid showing during the Asia Cup and was followed by an impressive display at the World Cup. A key highlight of his resurgence was his exceptional economy in the powerplay for bowlers who sent down over 20 overs in the initial 10, utilizing his unconventional bowling action, pace variations, and overall cricketing finesse to dominate the competition.
Despite possessing one of the most unorthodox actions in the world of cricket, coupled with a shorter run-up, Bumrah’s ability to generate high velocity has consistently confounded batsmen and intrigued fans as well as experts. Several esteemed former pace bowlers like Shoaib Akhtar have previously extended advice to Bumrah, focusing on ways to evade injuries and enhance his pace – suggestions which often revolved around tweaking his distinctive bowling action.
However, in a recent interaction, an unexpected source of counsel emerged. India’s gold-medal javelin throw Olympian, Neeraj Chopra, shared his perspective during the Indian Express’ Ideas Exchange. Drawing parallels between the run-up for a javelin throw and bowling in cricket, Chopra expressed his admiration for Bumrah’s unique style and provided an intriguing piece of advice. He suggested that by increasing the length of his run-up just slightly, Bumrah could potentially add even more speed to his already formidable pace.
This advice from Chopra comes from a place of experience and understanding, considering that javelin throwers also engage in a run-up to generate momentum. “I like Jasprit Bumrah, I find his action unique. As a javelin thrower, we often discuss how bowlers can increase their pace if they start their run-up a little further back. I like Bumrah’s style,” Chopra stated, showing his support for the cricketing prodigy’s current methodology yet offering a subtle recommendation for improvement.
Chopra, who was among the numerous stars in attendance at the World Cup 2023 final in Ahmedabad, also shared his thoughts on India’s loss, suggesting that the Australian team may have possessed a psychological advantage from the outset of the game. He noted the formidable mindset of the Australian bowlers and their unwavering confidence which, according to him, played a pivotal role in turning the game in their favor.
Following this high-octane international cricket season, fans of the Indian cricket team will once again look forward to watching Bumrah in action during the upcoming Test series against South Africa, which is set to commence on December 26. This series will undoubtedly be an important opportunity for Bumrah to showcase whether he takes on board Chopra’s advice or continues to rely on his tried and tested approach that has served him so well in his international cricket journey to date.
In related news and as anticipation builds for the India versus South Africa Test series, English cricket also finds itself under the microscope. England’s coach Brendon McCullum has acknowledged that the forthcoming series against India will serve as the ultimate trial for ‘Bazball’, England’s aggressive playing style under his guidance. Meanwhile, England’s skipper Jos Buttler expressed frustration over his continual lack of form in One Day Internationals (ODIs), even as the cricketing community also reacts to David Warner’s manager’s sharp critique of former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson’s opinion on selection matters.
The cricketing world continues its relentless churn, with players, coaches, and spectators alike remaining engaged in the ebb and flow of matches, series, victories, and losses. For now, though, the spotlight subtly shifts to Bumrah and his next spell in India’s illustrious cricket narrative.