India’s recent Test series victory against Bangladesh was a testament to the evolution of their fast-bowling attack. In a series where the Indian pacers managed to match their spin counterparts in wicket-taking for only the second time at home, the duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep stood out as key architects of the team’s success.
Bumrah, known for his unorthodox bowling action and ability to adapt to different formats, showcased his mastery of the slower ball. His ability to deceive batters with his variations has become a tactical hallmark. On the fifth day of the second Test, he dismissed veteran Bangladeshi batter Mushfiqur Rahim with a 125 kmph off-cutter that veered in sharply and shattered his stumps. This was just one example of how Bumrah utilizes his slower deliveries, often towards the end of an over, creating a sense of surprise and unpredictability for the batter.
His approach is similar to a boxer setting up a powerful punch with a series of jabs. He frequently bowls tight lines and lengths, establishing a rhythm that the batter becomes accustomed to, before unleashing his slower ball, turning the expected into the unexpected. This strategy has proven successful against various batters, including Shaun Marsh in the 2018 Melbourne Test.
Bumrah’s off-cutter, honed through his extensive experience in T20 cricket, has become a valuable weapon in his Test arsenal. His added wrist snap generates significant revolutions on the ball, causing it to dip abruptly and swerve after pitching, increasing the difficulty for the batter.
While Bumrah’s use of slower deliveries was sporadic in the past, he has significantly increased his reliance on these variations in 2024, bowling an average of 8.71 slower balls per Test compared to 1.64 in previous years. This tactical shift has yielded positive results, with six of his 11 slower-ball dismissals coming this year alone.
Meanwhile, Akash Deep’s unique wrist action and wobbled seam create a unique challenge for batters. His deliveries, mostly landing on a good length or back of a length, make it difficult to predict the ball’s trajectory. With his deliveries either seaming away or nipping back in, he has proved to be a handful for the opposition. Despite occasionally reaching speeds of 140 kmph, Akash often relies on deception over raw pace, keeping batters guessing.
Akash’s debut against England earlier this year saw him quickly dismantle the top order with his mix of deliveries. He has quickly established himself as a promising talent, with his natural length and ability to move the ball making him an ideal addition to India’s fast-bowling arsenal.
As India prepares for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, Akash will have an opportunity to further hone his skills before the crucial tour of Australia in November. The recent success of the Indian fast bowlers highlights a dynamic and evolving approach to the art of fast bowling, combining traditional skills with innovative strategies to effectively navigate diverse conditions and challenge opposition batsmen.
