- One of the most common aspects seen from cricket connoisseurs and experts alike is the penchant to compare players from different eras. Why? Simply because die-hard fans are greatly engrossed with the statistics of players. If the cricketer in question shows signs of promise, progress, and potential to emerge as one of the game’s greats, expect the experts to dwelve into comparing with someone from a different era. This is seen in every sporting discipline as a matter of fact, and cricket is not exempt from being compared. Since cricket is considered no less than a religion in India, cricket-crazy fans in the country are always keen to initiate comparisons whenever an amazing talent emerges on the scene. Look at how Jasprit Bumrah is hogging the limelight of late.
PC:Al Jazeera
- Yes, the cricketing world is quite agog with how the pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has flowered over the last few years. It was apparent Bumrah was a special talent right at the time of his debut with an awkward action and delivery making it extremely challenging for the batters to counter. Notably, his short runup and the acceleration just before the time of delivery made it tough for the batters to gauge the speed. Bumrah bowled at a brisk pace but was more of a unidimensional bowler in the beginning with inswingers and searing yorkers as his main weapons. However, over the last few years, he has developed outswingers, dippers, cutters, and slower deliveries, making him one of the most versatile, potent, and the most improved bowlers among his contemporaries.
PC:Times of India
- So much so that the evolution of Bumrah’s success story is an inspirational tale in itself. No wonder, Bumrah is the standby captain in the Tests and has tasted success by showcasing his leadership skills hands-on. The ongoing five-match Test series between India and Australia has amply showcased the emergence of Bumrah, the leader in no small measures. In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, he was handed over the cudgel to deliver the goods. Indeed, Bumrah has delivered spectacularly by leading from the front bagging a five-fer in the first innings and a three-fer in the second innings leading to a big win. Of course, he was crowned the man of the match for his bowling efforts as well as shrewd leadership skills too.
PC:The Economic Times
- As if on cue, the experts have already started comparing Bumrah’s exploits to that of the marquee allrounder Kapil Dev who is still considered as one of the greatest allrounders of all time. The legendary Kapil Dev was Team India’s pace spearhead for almost fifteen years. Many present-day pace bowlers were inspired by his sheer athleticism and unparalleled exploits on the cricketing field. Remember, Kapil had to toil very hard during his time without adequate support from the other pacers. He was known to ply his unquestionable talent alone. Now, proclaiming Bumrah as the greatest Indian pace bowler is not only premature but also belittles the immeasurable contributions of Kapil Dev. Kapil Dev is incomparable, and Bumrah must traverse many miles yet.
