Former cricketer Laxmipathy Balaji compares Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah to great Wasim Akram. He believes that Bumrah is the second best fast bowler in Asia, just behind Akram.
Balaji observed the similarities between Akram and Bumrah. They both are notable for precise bowling, effective yorkers, fast pace and change of angles.
The Laxmipathy Balaji Interview: Comparing Jasprit Bumrah With Wasim Akram
“He has all those attributes that Wasim bhai was known for. Both are same types, they have changed the dynamics of fast bowling,” Balaji added.
“Their upper bodies are strong, they hardly follow through while cricketing, do not gain in run-up like others who come in after gaining momentum from run-up because everything happens on hand from wrist with dominance on the bowling arm with which they do everything else only using their accurate delivery ending up in a Yorker at high speed or just changing pace or angle to confuse batsman concerning pitch and weather conditions. This small detail makes them very successful even on smooth wickets; by using their body above their waistlines as a package to supplement their arms’ work load,” said Balaji.
Commenting about Bumrah’s talent, Balaji stated “Bumrah happens to be just one man short of greatness when it comes to this continent.” The 1992 World Cup final saw Akram burst into global consciousness with some unplayable balls and three wickets; thereafter till 2003 he endeavored towards becoming the Jonty Rhodes or Shane Warne of fast bowling. I believe this is a decade where Bumrah can chase greatness especially if he can win India this WC single-handedly over it.”
Balaji also commended how well Bumrah returned after having back surgery as a faster bowler than ever before.
“Nowadays, I know that science has improved so much more, technology has become pervasive. There’s no logic for playing cricket in six months after a back operation and having foreign body inside you,” Balaji said.
Balaji believes Bumrah is deadlier today than ever before.
“I mean guys lose pace, they lose a bit of confidence when they return from any surgery. But this man, he has gone beyond that; he has come out better on the other side than what he used to be. One thing that stands out about his bowling is the fact that he’s brought in a late away-swinger to the right-hander,” Balaji explain.
He continued, “Earlier, his stock delivery was the one that came back in. But clearly during rehab process he never let any grass grow under his feet because he spent considerable time thinking about his bowling and what it took for him to be even deadlier than before. This new late away-swinger.”
According to Balaji, Bumrah is the most complete fast bowler right now. He appreciated Bumrah’s ability play different types of cricket matches.
“Right now, there isn’t a more versatile fast bowler around if you look at Test cricket or white-ball cricket or anything else like that.” No matter whether it is the new ball or old one—he can reverse it magnificently. In a limited-overs game with middle-overs being play by him variations as well as his repertoire make him someone who takes wickets rather than someone who just restricts run-scoring rates within limits. If there is a more versatile and dangerous fast bowler right now, I don’t know who that is,” conclude Balaji.
Balaji’s ideas serve to emphasize the level of esteem and high hopes attached to Bumrah as a central figure in Indian cricket.
