Not all cricket superstars are viewed the same way, even if their impact on the game is equally massive. Jasprit Bumrah is widely seen as one of the best fast bowlers in the world today, known for delivering match-winning performances across formats. Yet, when it comes to popularity, comparisons with batting icon Virat Kohli still reveal a noticeable gap.
Former India pacer and current Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel recently shared his honest thoughts on this topic. He acknowledged that Jasprit Bumrah is undoubtedly a star but explained that fast bowlers often don’t enjoy the same level of mass appeal as top batters like Virat Kohli.
Beyond popularity, Munaf Patel raised a deeper concern about the state of fast bowling in India. He pointed out that while more young bowlers are emerging, there is still a lack of proper awareness, training and guidance at the grassroot level. According to him, the game has changed and pace has become one of the most important factors in modern cricket.
He explained that finding bowlers who can deliver at around 125 kmph is not difficult. However, those who can consistently bowl at speeds of 140 kmph or more are rare. And in today’s cricket, such high pace almost guarantees attention from selectors and franchises.
Munaf Patel highlighted what he sees as a contradiction in Indian cricket. Even though there is a clear demand for genuine fast bowlers, many aspiring players are not being trained in a way that helps them reach those speeds. He believes that a fast bowler who can regularly hit 135–140 kmph has a strong chance of making it to the Indian team quickly. On the other hand, someone bowling at lower speeds, even with good swing, might struggle to get noticed, even in the IPL auctions.
He also questioned whether current systems are doing enough to develop fast bowlers scientifically. Referring to the National Cricket Academy, Munaf Patel stressed the importance of structured training. This includes proper coaching, fitness training, technique improvement and workload management to safely build pace.
According to him, developing a fast bowler is not just about natural talent, it requires the right support system and knowledge. Without that, many promising players may never reach their full potential.
Munaf Patel’s views bring attention to a larger issue. While India celebrates stars like Jasprit Bumrah, there is still a need to strengthen the pipeline of high-quality fast bowlers. The future of Indian cricket may depend on how well this gap is addressed.
