Basil Thampi's Resurgence: From Struggle to Strength

Basil Thampi, the Kerala fast bowler, has rediscovered his mojo this season, emerging as a potent force with the new ball and leading his team to several crucial victories. After struggling in the past two seasons following the departure of his long-time bowling partner Sandeep Warrier, Thampi has undergone a remarkable transformation, fueled by improved fitness and a revamped bowling action.

During the off-season, Thampi spent three months at the MRF Pace Academy, working with coach Senthilnathan to enhance his strength and refine his bowling technique. The focus was on increasing his release point, transitioning from a side-arm delivery to a straighter trajectory. This adjustment has yielded positive results, as Thampi has found greater accuracy and consistency in his bowling.

The results of Thampi's hard work were evident in the recent domestic season, where he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker for Kerala in the Ranji Trophy, claiming 24 wickets at an average of 24.20. He played a pivotal role in Kerala's victory over Bengal, delivering a match-winning spell, and nearly guided his team to victory against Andhra with an incisive spell with the old ball after tea.

Thampi's resurgence has been a major boost for Kerala, providing the team with a reliable and effective new-ball bowler. His ability to bowl long spells, maintain a fine rhythm, and create early breakthroughs on flat wickets has been instrumental in Kerala's success this season.

Reflecting on his improved performance, Thampi attributed his success to enhanced fitness and a change in his bowling action. He acknowledged the impact of his absence from Warrier, but emphasized that his focus on fitness and technical adjustments have been key to his resurgence.

Thampi also expressed satisfaction with his overall performance, highlighting his five-wicket haul against Assam and his impressive spell against Mumbai, where he dismissed Ajinkya Rahane in the opening over. He credited his teammates M.D. Nidheesh, N.P. Basil, and Akhin Sathar for maintaining pressure from the other end.

While Kerala narrowly missed out on qualification for the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals, Thampi remained optimistic about the team's progress. He acknowledged that luck was not on their side in certain matches, but expressed confidence that with improved toss luck, the outcome could have been different.

Tags: #BasilThampi, #Kerala, #RanjiTrophy, #FastBowler, #BowlingTransformation