Shoaib Akhtar Critiques Indian Bowling Unit: Questions Pace of Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube
NEW DELHI – Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has delivered a scathing assessment of India’s bowling resources, specifically targeting the pace and effectiveness of all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube. Speaking on the sports platform Tapmad, the ‘Rawalpindi Express’ analyzed the vulnerabilities in India’s attack against high-caliber batting lineups like South Africa, suggesting that the current seam-bowling all-rounders lack the intimidation factor required for death overs.
Criticism of Pace and Intimidation
Akhtar expressed concerns regarding the reliance on medium-pacers in crucial phases of T20 matches. He highlighted that bowling speeds in the 120 kph range are insufficient to trouble top-tier international batters.
“Hardik and Shivam Dube were bowling at around 120 kmph. It’s not as if they are Malcolm Marshall — someone who would intimidate a batting line-up of South Africa’s calibre,” Akhtar said. He argued that deploying bowlers with this pace profile in the death overs invites counterattacks.
Key Criticisms Highlighted by Akhtar
- Lack of Airspeed: Criticized the 120-130 kph average speed of seam all-rounders.
- Tactical Errors: Questioned the decision to use medium pacers during the death overs.
- Fragility: Described the bowling unit as “exposed” against aggressive batting units.
The Spin Debate: Varun Chakaravarthy vs. Kuldeep Yadav
Beyond the pacers, Akhtar also dissected India’s spin department. He pointed out technical flaws in mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy’s recent performances, specifically noting a drop in pace that renders him less effective. Akhtar referenced historical struggles, such as moments where aggressive batters like Dewald Brevis have dominated him.
“Indian bowling has been exposed. If you look at Varun, whose strength is bowling at 97-98 kmph, he was clocking 94. And when he came into the attack, he was hit for a no-look six by Dewald Brevis,” Akhtar observed.
He drew a parallel between Varun Chakaravarthy and Washington Sundar, suggesting their similar skill sets make the attack predictable. In contrast, Akhtar advocated strongly for the inclusion of left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
“The missing link here is Kuldeep Yadav. He is someone who can deceive batters in the air and pick up wickets when needed. He is a proven match-winner,” Akhtar added.
Comparison of Spin Options
| Bowler | Bowling Style | Akhtar’s Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Varun Chakaravarthy | Right-arm Leg Break/Mystery | Criticized for reduced pace and predictability; vulnerable to power hitters. |
| Kuldeep Yadav | Left-arm Wrist Spin (Chinaman) | Labelled the “missing link”; praised for flight, deception, and wicket-taking ability. |
| Washington Sundar | Right-arm Off Break | Viewed as similar to Varun, offering limited variation in the current setup. |
Strategic Implications for India
Akhtar’s comments underscore a broader debate regarding India’s T20 team balance—specifically the trade-off between batting depth provided by all-rounders like Dube and the specialized wicket-taking threat of bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav. As India prepares for future ICC events, the composition of the bowling attack remains a critical focal point for selectors and management.
For more official statistics and player profiles, visit the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Data and quotes referenced from Shoaib Akhtar’s analysis on Tapmad.