The Indian cricket team is exuding confidence, especially in its pace unit, as they prepare for the imminent ODI World Cup next month. India's bowling coach Paras Mhambrey in a press conference voiced his satisfaction with the team's bowling prowess, highlighting the triumphant return of Jasprit Bumrah post his injury hiatus.
Bumrah, after enduring an extensive injury layoff, marked his come back during the recent Ireland tour. Demonstrating his impeccable form, he continued his streak by impressing all during the ongoing Asia Cup. Mhambrey noted, "We have been following Bumrah's progress from the NCA, and we are very happy with the report that we have got."
The re-emergence of Bumrah in India's bowling landscape has led to a formidable line-up. "Now, we have four quality bowlers, and it is always great to have those options. The problem of plenty is always good," asserted Mhambrey, painting a vivid picture of the team's abundant talent pool.
Mhambrey rues conundrum around Shami
Yet, the abundance of talent comes with its share of challenges. Notably, this has seen Mohammed Shami, a veteran player, being placed on the bench. Delving into this decision, Mhambrey conveyed, "It's difficult to drop someone like Shami. The experience that he has and the performance that he has done for the country is phenomenal. It's never easy to have that kind of a conversation (dropping a player)."
Mhambrey was quick to reassure that such decisions are always made with clarity and the players' best interests in mind. He emphasized, "Players know any decision that we take and they know that it is for the benefit of the team."
The coach's satisfaction isn't limited to the seasoned players. He expressed his delight over the evolution of Hardik Pandya as a bowler, stating, "I am very happy with the way Hardik has shaped up...Once he hits 140 kmph, he is a different bowler. From the team perspective, it's a wicket-taking option that we have."
In a strategic move for future matches, the Indian team is also focusing on enhancing the bowling capabilities of certain batsmen. Tilak Varma, in this context, has been highlighted as a prime example. Mhambrey shared, "I have been working with Tilak since his U-19 days... If the captain gets confidence that he can bowl one over and deliver, this one over can turn into two overs. But it depends on circumstances where we need that extra bowler."
With such in-depth planning and a comprehensive approach, the Indian cricket team appears well-poised for the World Cup challenge ahead.
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