Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has identified a significant weakness in the Indian cricket team following their 8-wicket defeat to New Zealand. Ali highlighted concerns not only with the batting lineup but also with the bowling attack.
Ali praised Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling, comparing him to legendary Pakistani pacers Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. However, he emphasized the need for a strong pace bowling partner to complement Bumrah.
“Bumrah’s eight-over spell reminded me of Akram and Younis,” said Ali. “But India needs to consider having two pace bowlers alongside him when they tour Australia. Currently, he lacks a reliable pace bowling partner.”
Ali pointed out the absence of Mohammed Shami, who has been a key member of India’s pace attack in recent years. “Shami’s fitness ahead of the Australia tour is crucial for India,” he added.
While Akash Deep has emerged as a potential option, India has also included Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav, and Prasidh Krishna in their reserves for the New Zealand Test series.
Ali also expressed curiosity about how newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir will handle such a defeat, especially after India’s lowest-ever total at home.
“Now that India has lost a Test, all eyes will be on KL Rahul,” said Ali. “Let’s see how Gambhir tackles this. Rahul Dravid handled it well. This defeat serves as an eye-opener for Gambhir ahead of the Australia tour.”
Despite the setback, India still has a chance to salvage the series against New Zealand with two Tests remaining. However, the defeat has raised questions about the team’s batting and bowling capabilities, particularly the lack of a reliable pace bowling partner for Bumrah.
