Pakistan Selector Aaqib Javed Sparks Debate by Comparing Jasprit Bumrah to Usman Tariq
Pakistan national selector Aaqib Javed has ignited discussions across the global cricket community by drawing an unconventional parallel between Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and emerging Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq. The comparison centers on Bumrah’s unorthodox bowling mechanics and the unparalleled difficulty batters experience when attempting to read his deliveries.
The Root of the Usman Tariq Comparison
Speaking to reporters, Javed analyzed the current state of global fast bowling following the conclusion of the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. He highlighted Bumrah’s distinct approach to the crease as the primary reason for his dominance.
“In today’s era, across this entire World Cup, there is only one bowler like that—Bumrah. Because he is different. He is not a normal bowler. Even his action is unusual. When he comes in to bowl, I always say he is like the Usman Tariq of fast bowlers,” Javed stated.
Usman Tariq recently gained attention in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for his mystery spin and a highly unorthodox pause in his run-up, which consistently disrupts the batter’s timing. Javed argued that Bumrah’s stuttering run-up and hyperextended release point achieve a similar disruptive effect, albeit at express pace.
Correcting the Record: Bumrah’s 2024 T20 World Cup Campaign
Early reports incorrectly cited Bumrah playing New Zealand in Ahmedabad with 14 wickets alongside Varun Chakravarthy. In reality, India secured the 2024 T20 World Cup title by defeating South Africa by seven runs in Bridgetown, Barbados. Bumrah was instrumental in the victory, delivering a match-turning spell of 2/18 in his four overs during the final.
Bumrah was named Player of the Tournament, setting modern records for economy rate in a T20 World Cup. He finished the campaign with 15 wickets, consistently stifling opposition batting lineups.
Jasprit Bumrah 2024 T20 World Cup Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 8 |
| Wickets | 15 |
| Economy Rate | 4.17 |
| Average | 8.26 |
| Best Bowling Figures | 3/7 |
The Aura of Past Greats
Beyond his mechanical advantages, Javed praised Bumrah’s overall impact on the game, noting that batters fail to establish rhythm against his unique pace and release. “He bowls so quickly and in such a unique manner that a batter never really finds any flow or rhythm against him. He simply doesn’t allow it,” Javed explained.
The Pakistan selector concluded his assessment by placing the Indian fast bowler in an elite historical tier. Javed observed a notable decline in the number of modern bowlers who command absolute authority over batters, identifying Bumrah as the sole exception in the contemporary game.
“Other than him, tell me one more bowler in this entire World Cup—from any team—whom you can look at and feel satisfied that he carries the reflection of a Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, or anyone like that. You won’t find one anymore,” Javed noted.