Zaheer Khan, the former Indian pacer, has shared his insights on India’s pace-bowling strategy for the upcoming T20 World Cup. According to him, the dynamic duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack for the Men In Blue. India, having clinched the ICC World T20 title in 2007, recently triumphed over Afghanistan in a T20I series, marking the conclusion of their T20I assignments before the 2024 World Cup.
After a mixed performance in the Test series against South Africa, both Bumrah and Siraj were given a well-deserved rest during the T20Is against Afghanistan. However, the pair is set to return for the high-profile Test series against England. Notably, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami was absent from the squad announcement for the England series, raising questions about his availability.
Zaheer Khan, sharing his thoughts on India’s pace arsenal, identified Shami as the potential X-factor for the team in the T20 World Cup.
He bowls good yorkers. So that is an added advantage.
So I will pick these four pacers because four pacers should go for sure,” Zaheer emphasized.
Shami, who hasn’t played competitive cricket since the 2023 ODI World Cup, faces uncertainty due to an ankle injury. Despite finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the ICC World Cup and becoming India’s all-time leading wicket-taker in the tournament, Shami’s inclusion in the squad for the South Africa series hinged on fitness. Unfortunately, he wasn’t cleared by the BCCI’s medical team, leading to his withdrawal from the Test series against the Proteas. Shami’s last Test appearance for India dates back to June.
While Bumrah and Siraj seem like certainties in the pace attack, the inclusion of Arshdeep Singh adds a left-arm variation and the ability to deliver potent yorkers. Zaheer Khan’s emphasis on Shami as the X-factor stems from the seasoned pacer’s experience, skill set, and past performances in global tournaments. Shami’s remarkable 24-wicket haul in the ODI World Cup showcased his ability to deliver under pressure on the big stage.
However, Shami’s road to recovery from the ankle injury remains a significant factor. His absence from competitive cricket for an extended period raises questions about his match fitness and form. The decision to include him in the T20 World Cup squad will likely hinge on his successful rehabilitation and readiness to handle the rigors of international cricket.
In summary, Zaheer Khan’s assessment provides a glimpse into the potential composition of India’s pace attack for the T20 World Cup. While Bumrah and Siraj offer reliability and form, Arshdeep Singh contributes a valuable left-arm angle. The wildcard factor, according to Zaheer, lies in Shami’s inclusion, provided he can overcome his injury concerns. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the T20 World Cup, India’s pace battery, led by these formidable pacers, will play a crucial role in the team’s quest for glory on the global stage.