In an unusual turn of events during the Cricket World Cup 2023, Indian cricket team stars Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli showcased their bowling skills in the team’s comprehensive win against the Netherlands on Sunday. With India already securing a semi-finals spot and a commanding total of 410 runs, captain Rohit Sharma utilized the opportunity to experiment with various part-time bowling options.
India’s bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, expressed his satisfaction with the performance of these occasional bowlers in a video released by BCCI on social media. He specifically praised Virat Kohli’s wicket-taking delivery, highlighting his strategic play and mentioning the discussions with Rohit about using Virat’s bowling capabilities effectively.
Mhambrey pointed out that the challenge was to utilize Virat in the middle phase of the game, a task he successfully accomplished in this match. He hinted at pushing Virat further, noting his potential with in-dipping yorkers, particularly against right-handed batsmen.
Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill, typically not known for their bowling, were described by Mhambrey as ‘works in progress.’ The coach noted the deliberate efforts by the team management and the skipper to develop their bowling skills. He humorously remarked on Suryakumar’s high-flying deliveries, which posed a comical threat to the spider cam, and acknowledged the gradual improvement in Shubman Gill’s bowling.
Mhambrey also revealed his two-year-long persuasion of Rohit to get Suryakumar to bowl in matches. He expressed his contentment at finally seeing Rohit, Virat, and Shubman bowl in a competitive setting, something he had witnessed during net sessions.
This strategic use of part-time bowlers not only adds depth to the Indian team’s bowling lineup but also provides a unique and flexible approach to their game plan. As India progresses in the tournament, these unconventional bowling choices might prove to be a valuable asset in their quest for the World Cup title.
