While Mohammed Shami might have picked up four wickets against England yesterday and hogged the majority of the limelight, Pakistan legend Wasim Akram is more impressed with Jasprit Bumrah’s performance. Defending a smallish target of 230, the Indian speedster was right on the money and managed to dismiss Dawaid Malan and Joe Root inside the powerplay.
The twin skrikes from Bumrah put the pressure on England from which they could not make a comeback and were bundled out for just 129. Impressed by Bumrah’s control, Akram said he is the most complete bowler from the current generation, with great skill and control.
“He is the best in the world right now. Top of the ladder! The control, the pace, the variations, just a complete bowler. A treat to watch,” Akram told the A Sports.
“With the new ball, to get this kind of movement on this kind of pitch … pace, carry, follow-through… you name it he’s a complete bowler,” he added.
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Wasim Akram in awe of Jasprit Bumrah’s skill & control
Akram also went on to elaborate on why Bumrah is better than him with the new ball. The Pakistani legend feels, the Indian superstar has great control, and that’s what makes him so special.
“When Bumrah is bowling to a left-hander from around the wicket and hits the ball on the seam… And when he’s bowling from wide of the crease, the batter will think the ball is coming inside.
“He will play for that angle, but the ball hits the pitch and moves away rather than coming in. Most of the time, you are going to be beaten.”
Akram also said that Pakistani bowlers should learn from Bumrah and try to be as complete a bowler as him.
“Why Bumrah is more lethal than Pakistan bowlers, because he plays more Test cricket, while our bowlers they don’t play in the longer format enough,” said Akram.
Bumrah’s terrific bowling rubbed off on Mohammed Shami, as continued to attack England’s batters with accurate line and length. India defended the smallish total in grand style by beating England by 100 runs.