Cricket

Bangladesh's 3-0 lead in the T20I series against Zimbabwe has been met with mixed reactions. While some fans celebrate the victories, others dismiss them due to Zimbabwe's lower ranking. However, Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed emphasizes that the team remains focused on improving ahead of the T20 World Cup."Our goals are World Cup-oriented," Taskin said. "We have to give our best in all conditions. If we can get into the World Cup with five or ten percent improvement, we can start well in that tournament."Taskin has been a standout performer for Bangladesh, taking six wickets in three games. He attributes his success to improved rhythm and hard work."I struggled with my rhythm in the BPL and Sri Lanka series, but it's improving now," he said. "I'm working hard, and the team expects me to bowl at high pace."Despite the low-scoring nature of the series, Taskin believes Bangladesh is giving its all."Conditions are different here than in the IPL," he said. "We're giving our 100 percent, even against Zimbabwe."Bangladesh's top-order batters have struggled, but Taskin remains optimistic."We're working on it," he said. "I hope we can do better in these two matches."Taskin is also encouraged by the emergence of young fast bowlers in domestic cricket."It's a great sign that more fast bowlers are coming into the scene," he said. "It's an additional motivation for us in the national team."

Ian Bishop, the former West Indies fast bowler, has lauded Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) emerging pace sensation, Mayank Yadav, for his rare combination of pace and control. Bishop emphasized the importance of managing Mayank properly through the expertise of medical professionals, strength and conditioning coaches, and nutritionists.Mayank made a stunning impact on IPL 2024 with his fiery pace during matches against Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). In these encounters, he showcased his talent by claiming six wickets and earning the 'Player of the Match' award in both games. Consistently touching speeds of 150 kmph, Mayank's exceptional control over line and length left spectators and pundits alike in awe.Although currently sidelined due to injury, his impending return has garnered anticipation from the entire cricket fraternity. Bishop acknowledged Mayank's extraordinary talent but cautioned against his injury history, emphasizing the importance of managing his body and ensuring adequate strengthening to prevent future setbacks.Bishop pointed out that Australian skipper Pat Cummins, who was injury-prone as a youngster, struggled to deal with the stress of the game on his body. But over the years, he managed to build for himself an impressive career after years of working on his body and changing his technique. The former bowler said that it would be great if Mayank gets the same input that Cummins once had in his career, be it through LSG or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).Bishop also stressed the importance of young fast bowlers like Mayank getting to hear the right voices. He suggested that Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah should be made to interact frequently with upcoming pace bowlers, as he is a clear thinker and great communicator.Bishop concluded by emphasizing the need for a more precise and determined approach to player development, especially when resources are available. He believes that supplementing on-field experience with knowledge and guidance from experienced players can help accelerate the learning curve and prevent injuries.

Jasprit Bumrah: The 'Professor' of Fast Bowling, Impresses with Exceptional PerformanceFormer West Indies pacer Ian Bishop has hailed Jasprit Bumrah as a "professor" of fast bowling, praising his exceptional knowledge, articulation, and ability to swing the ball in both directions. Bishop believes Bumrah's skills make him an ideal mentor for aspiring seam bowlers.In a recent match against Punjab Kings, Bumrah showcased his mastery with a four-over spell of 3 for 21, dismissing Sam Curran, Rilee Rossouw, and Shashank Singh. His performance, along with Gerald Coetzee's 3/32, helped Mumbai Indians restrict Punjab Kings to 183 in their run-chase, despite a valiant fightback from Ashutosh Sharma and Shashank.Bumrah's outstanding performance earned him the 'Player of the Match' award and propelled him to the top of the Purple Cap table, with 13 wickets from seven matches in this IPL season.Bishop, impressed by Bumrah's knowledge and communication skills, suggested that he should hold bowling lectures for young aspiring seam bowlers across the country. He believes that Bumrah's insights and expertise would be invaluable for the development of future fast bowlers.Bumrah's ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his accuracy and control, makes him a formidable opponent. He has consistently been one of the most effective bowlers in the IPL, and his performance against Punjab Kings is a testament to his exceptional skills.As the IPL season progresses, Bumrah will be a key player for Mumbai Indians, who will be looking to defend their title. His ability to take wickets and control the run rate will be crucial to their success.

Mayank Yadav, the young pacer from Lucknow Super Giants, has emerged as one of the most promising talents in the ongoing IPL 2024. His impressive performances, including consistently clocking over 150kmph, have made him a key player for his team. However, an abdominal niggle has sidelined him from several games, raising concerns about his availability.On April 7, Yadav was forced to leave the field after bowling just one over against Gujarat Titans. He subsequently missed games against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. However, a recent video posted by LSG has sparked speculation about his imminent return.The video, captioned "Phir se udd chala (flying again)," shows Yadav bowling at full speed. This has raised hopes among fans and team management that he may be fit enough to play in LSG's upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings on Friday.LSG coach Justin Langer has expressed optimism about Yadav's recovery, stating that he is targeting the home game against Chennai Super Kings on April 19 for his return. "We want him to play every game if possible," Langer said.Yadav's absence has been a significant blow to LSG, who have struggled to find a consistent replacement. His ability to bowl at high speeds and generate swing has been a major asset for the team.Meanwhile, LSG has also provided an update on the fitness of left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan, who has missed the team's last two games due to a back injury. Langer revealed that Khan is now bowling and could be available for the upcoming match against Kolkata Knight Riders.With the IPL playoffs approaching, LSG will be eager to have both Yadav and Khan back in action. Their return would provide a significant boost to the team's chances of securing a top-four finish and challenging for the title.

Jasprit Bumrah's emergence as a world-class fast bowler has been a pivotal moment in Indian cricket's transformation into a formidable force in the realm of pace bowling. Under the leadership of Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri, India embarked on a mission to develop a fast bowling arsenal that could dominate the global stage. Bumrah became the embodiment of this revolution, his unique action and exceptional skills proving too challenging for batters to decipher.As Bumrah's star ascended, so too did India's reputation as a fast bowling powerhouse. Today, India ranks among the top three teams in the world in terms of pace prowess. However, Bumrah's journey to the pinnacle of cricket almost took a different turn.Hailing from Gujarat, Bumrah once considered relocating to Canada for better opportunities. But fate intervened when he was spotted by the Mumbai Indians franchise. The rest, as they say, is history.In a recent interview with his wife, Sanjana, Bumrah revealed his past aspirations to move to Canada. "Every boy wants to make it big and play cricket," he said. "But you have to have a backup plan."Fortunately for Indian cricket, Bumrah's backup plan never materialized. He has become an indispensable member of the Indian team and the Mumbai Indians, playing a pivotal role in their numerous triumphs.Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary recently expressed his belief that Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mayank Yadav should be included in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Tiwary praised Bumrah's exceptional skills and Yadav's impressive form and control.Bumrah's rise to prominence has not only transformed India's fast bowling unit but has also inspired a new generation of young bowlers to pursue their dreams. His unique action and unwavering determination have made him a role model for aspiring cricketers across the country.

Mukesh Kumar, the promising Indian pacer, has made a significant impact on the cricketing scene with his impressive performances in all three formats. In an exclusive interview, Kumar shared his insights on his bowling prowess, the guidance he has received from senior bowlers, and his aspirations for the upcoming season.Kumar's journey to the international stage has been marked by consistent performances in domestic cricket. His ability to deliver in all three formats has earned him recognition as a versatile bowler. In 2023, he made his international debut in all three formats, showcasing his skills against some of the world's best batsmen.One of the key factors behind Kumar's success has been his ability to execute accurate yorkers. He credits his confidence in landing the yorkers to his early days in cricket, where he honed his skills in gully cricket. Kumar's yorkers have become a potent weapon in his arsenal, helping him to restrict batsmen and create pressure situations.Kumar has also benefited from the guidance of experienced fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma. He has learned the importance of not allowing batsmen to dominate and the value of unpredictability in his bowling. Bumrah's advice to bowl yorkers with the new ball has been particularly influential in Kumar's development.In the Delhi Capitals squad, Kumar has found a mentor in Ishant Sharma. Sharma's experience and knowledge have been invaluable to Kumar, who seeks his advice on bowling techniques and strategies. Sharma's belief in Kumar's abilities has instilled confidence in the young pacer.Kumar is excited about the upcoming IPL season and is determined to help Delhi Capitals win the title. He is also looking forward to the T20 World Cup, but remains focused on the present and his short-term goals.The recent introduction of fast bowling contracts by the BCCI has been welcomed by Kumar. He believes it will recognize the efforts of young pacers in domestic cricket and provide them with a sense of security.

The Sylhet pitch has proven to be a refreshing change for Bangladesh, where fast bowlers have traditionally struggled. The presence of live grass on the surface has provided a rare opportunity for pacers to excel, while also allowing batters to play their shots freely.Sri Lanka's fast bowlers capitalized on these conditions, claiming all ten Bangladesh wickets in the first innings of the first Test. This marked the first time Sri Lanka's quicks had achieved this feat since Johannesburg 2021.Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, and Kasun Rajitha showcased their skills, consistently bowling on and outside the off stump. Fernando claimed four wickets, including the crucial dismissals of Zakir Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Rajitha removed Mominul Haque and Taijul Islam, while Kumara accounted for Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shahadat Hossain.Sri Lanka's fast-bowling coach, Dharshana Gamage, praised his bowlers' discipline and execution. "They bowled really well to get all ten wickets," he said. "There was a bit of help from the wicket as well, but they stuck to their basics and bowled in the right areas."Gamage emphasized the importance of discipline and bowling partnerships. "Our basic plan was to bowl on top of off-stump all day," he said. "We developed good bowling partnerships from both ends, and that's what ultimately led to our success."Gamage also highlighted the efforts of Vishwa, who has been working hard to maintain his fitness and rhythm for Test cricket. "We've worked very hard to bring and keep him at this level," Gamage said. "He works extremely hard to stay sharp and keep his rhythm."Kumara, who was playing his first Test in 12 months, also impressed with his endurance and accuracy. "He has had some injuries in the last few years, but we've worked hard on his workload," Gamage said. "He is in good shape at the moment and showed that he could bowl consistently in the right areas."With Chris Silverwood at the helm, Sri Lanka's fast bowlers have shown a renewed focus on discipline and consistency. While Asitha Fernando is absent, Kumara has staked his claim for a place in the first-choice pace attack alongside Vishwa and Rajitha. The trio will need to continue their impressive performances to help Sri Lanka secure victory in the ongoing Test.

Bangladesh's fast bowlers continue to shine, with Tanzim Hasan Sakib emerging as the latest star in their ODI triumph over Sri Lanka. The 21-year-old pacer played a pivotal role in the team's victory, claiming three crucial wickets in his opening spell.Tanzim's early strikes, which included the dismissals of Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and Sadeera Samarawickrama, halted Sri Lanka's momentum and set the tone for Bangladesh's dominance. Shoriful Islam and Taskin Ahmed also contributed with three wickets each, marking only the third time in Bangladesh's ODI history that their fast bowlers have combined for nine or more wickets in an innings.This impressive performance is a testament to Bangladesh's ongoing pace revolution, which has seen the emergence of several talented fast bowlers in recent years. Taskin and Shoriful have established themselves as key members of the team, while Tanzim's emergence provides further depth to the bowling attack.Tanzim's success is particularly noteworthy as he was replacing Mustafizur Rahman, Bangladesh's most experienced fast bowler. However, Tanzim has shown maturity beyond his years, impressing with his discipline, fitness, and unwavering determination.Mushfiqur Rahim, who witnessed Tanzim's performance firsthand, praised the young bowler's attitude and work ethic. He believes that Tanzim's positive mindset and commitment to excellence will inspire his teammates and contribute to Bangladesh's success in the future.The rise of Bangladesh's fast bowlers has been a major factor in their recent ODI victories, including their historic series win in South Africa in 2022. The team's bowling coach, Allan Donald, has played a significant role in transforming the attitude and fitness of the fast-bowling group, leading to improved performances.While Tanzim may not be a regular starter in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, he will be eager to maintain his discipline and performance in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup later this year. Bangladesh's fast-bowling stocks are at an all-time high, and Tanzim is determined to prove that he belongs among the best.

Yash Thakur, a promising young fast bowler, has emerged as a key figure in Vidarbha's Ranji Trophy campaign. For five years, he has honed his skills under the tutelage of India's premier pacer, Umesh Yadav.In the ongoing Ranji Trophy final against Mumbai, Yash played a pivotal role in bowling out the defending champions for 224. Opening the bowling, he broke the 81-run opening stand with a sharp delivery that kissed the edge of Bhupen Lalwani's bat. After lunch, he returned to dismiss Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian, breaking the back of Mumbai's lower order.Yash's success is a testament to the mentorship he has received from Umesh. The experienced pacer has been a constant presence in the Vidarbha team, providing guidance and encouragement to the younger bowlers. Yash recalls a particular incident during the 2018-19 Ranji semifinal against Kerala, where Umesh's words of encouragement helped him overcome a wicketless spell."He walked up to me, reminded me the game is not over and told me to back myself," Yash said. "It helped and I picked four in the next match. Since then, every time I bowl when he is around, he is always at mid-off, egging me and the others on."Yash's journey to becoming a fast bowler began at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Academy, where he was initially a wicketkeeper. However, former Vidarbha captain and coach Praveen Hinganikar saw his potential as a bowler and encouraged him to focus on that aspect of the game."Sir (Hinganikar) told me there are more ways beyond wicketkeeping to emulate Dhoni," Yash said. "He told me to learn from Dhoni in other aspects of the game and implement it while bowling. That was a turning point."Yash's performance in the Ranji Trophy final has not only showcased his talent but also highlighted the importance of mentorship in sports. Umesh Yadav's guidance and support have played a crucial role in shaping Yash's career, and it is a testament to the positive impact that experienced athletes can have on the development of young players.