In India’s commanding 280-run victory over Bangladesh, the spotlight was firmly on their spin all-rounders, with Ravichandran Ashwin scoring a century and taking a five-wicket haul, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed five wickets and contributed a crucial fifty in Chennai. However, the former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali turned attention to India’s pace unit, drawing comparisons to Pakistan’s legendary trio of Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar and Waqar Younis.
Of the 20 Bangladeshi wickets that fell in the four-day match at MA Chidambaram Stadium, 11 were claimed by spinners, while the remaining nine fell to India’s fast bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah led the charge with a stellar 4 for 50 in the first innings, benefiting from the seamer-friendly conditions. Akash Deep chipped in with two early wickets, while Mohammed Siraj, with his consistent line and length, also claimed two important scalps.
While speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit Ali commended the Indian pace attack for its impact, even in the absence of senior pacer Mohammed Shami who is currently undergoing rehabilitation. He likened the effectiveness of India’s pace unit to the iconic Akram-Waqar-Akhtar combination from Pakistan’s cricketing history.
Basit Ali said, “The Indian bowling unit is so impactful that they are on the level with pacers Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, and Waqar Younis. Right now, Mohammed Shami is not playing.”
While Bumrah, Akash Deep and Siraj took center stage, India’s depth in fast bowling continues to grow. Shami is expected to return soon and Yash Dayal who was part of the test squad for the Bangladesh series, is also awaiting his debut. Additionally, several pace options showcased their talent in the Duleep Trophy, including Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar and Harshit Rana.
Basit Ali, however, reaffirmed his previous statement, urging the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar to consider Mayank Yadav for a place in the test squad. He said, “Mayank Yadav’s ball is very dangerous. His bouncer is accurate. I wish to see him play a test match in Australia.”
If you wish to watch the video, click here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvt2HB-L6UfA
Do you agree with Basit Ali’s statement that the current Indian pace unit is equivalent to the Pakistani trio of Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar?
