India’s recent Test defeat to England at Headingley, where they failed to defend a target of 371 runs in the fourth innings, has put a spotlight on the team’s frontline pacers. With the exception of Jasprit Bumrah, the fast bowlers have faced considerable criticism for their inability to take wickets, create pressure, or contain the flow of runs, ultimately contributing to India being “bazballed” into losing the series ope
The statistics paint a clear picture of the struggles. Mohammed Siraj bowled 41 overs across both innings, claiming two wickets while conceding a hefty 173 runs at an economy rate of 4.2 runs per over. Prasidh Krishna, though picking up five wickets in 35 overs, was expensive, leaking 220 runs at an economy of 6.2. In stark contrast, Jasprit Bumrah delivered 43.4 overs, secured five wickets, and maintained an impressive economy rate of just 3.2. This significant difference in performance is a cause for concern.
Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin believes that the lack of support from his fellow pacers is unduly increasing Bumrah’s workload. Ashwin specifically suggested that Siraj needs to step up and control the run rate from his end, even if it means not taking a flurry of wickets.
Ashwin elaborated on his YouTube channel, saying, “Bumrah is bowling extraordinarily. Prasidh, when he gets it right, bowls unbelievably well. Jadeja will perform his role. My only question is to Siraj: ‘Can you just dry up the runs? You don’t have to pick wickets, but can you not give away 4-5 runs in every over?’” He further explained the implications of leaking runs, adding, “If runs are being leaked, then you have to bring Bumrah back into the attack. How many dams will Bumrah be able to construct? Also, he gets tired, and his spells are pushed and by then, partnerships are forged. Or you’d have to go with Jadeja, who has to step in to stem the flow of runs.”
Ashwin drew a parallel to the role played by current India bowling coach Morne Morkel during his playing days for South Africa. Morkel’s disciplined bowling helped maintain pressure and allowed strike bowlers like Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander to thrive.
Emphasizing Siraj’s crucial role, Ashwin stated, “Prasidh is playing for the first time (in England) and is inexperienced. Siraj has to play the bankable role. Remember how Morne Morkel used to bowl? He used to give 43 runs in 20 overs and take 2 wickets. In Bazball era, you might go for 2/58. That is the role Siraj has to play and if he is effective in it, it would make a huge difference.”
Will Siraj listen to Ashwin?
