Wasim Akram lauds Bumrah’s artistry with the new ball

Wasim Akram has expressed tremendous admiration for Jasprit Bumrah’s skill in using the crossed seam to make the new ball move away from the batter. Akram, who used a similar technique during his career, commended Bumrah’s remarkable precision in delivering this type of ball. He even went as far as to declare that when it comes to bowling such deliveries, Bumrah surpasses him in prowess. Recently, Wasim had praised the Indian fast bowling trio consisting of Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj as the best in the world.

Bumrah’s exceptional performance in the match, where he secured three wickets for 32 runs, played a pivotal role in India’s commanding 100-run win. His proficiency was most evident during his spell with the new ball, as he skillfully swung it in both directions and outpaced the batters with his precision. Akram was particularly struck by Bumrah’s ball control, noting that he himself employed a similar technique during his playing days, ensuring a whip-like action when delivering the ball.

“When you bring the ball from the right-hand side, the ball is coming inside. So, the batsman will play from the angle. When the ball will come out from the inside, the batsman will be beaten. When I used to out-swing the right-hand batter, I used to hold the ball like this and hit the wrist. So, the ball will come inside and go out. But, Bumrah definitely got better control with the new ball than me,” Akram said.

There’s only one cure, steal his spikes: Akram’s hilarious way to tackle Bumrah

Akram noted that Bumrah’s initial spell in the World Cup is causing hesitation among the batsmen, and he humorously suggested a way for opposing batters to challenge the formidable Bumrah. He emphasized that the length at which Bumrah delivers the new ball is the key factor unsettling the batters. “Bumrah ka ek hi ilaaj hai uspe pressure daalne; uske spikes chori karlo. Aur koi hal nahi hai (There’s only one way to put pressure on Bumrah. Steal his bowling spikes. There’s no other cure),” said Wasim humorously.

India faced their first real challenge of the tournament when they were asked to bat first, posting a modest 229/9 in 50 overs. England, chasing the target, struggled and were dismissed for just 129 runs. The pace duo of Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah proved too much for England’s batsmen. As a result, the 2019 champions now languish at the bottom of the table, while India’s commanding win propelled them to the top spot.