The title of ‘the world’s top pace attack’ might seem unbelievable to those who have followed India’s World Cup journey since the 1970s. Historically, this distinction was primarily associated with the West Indies, then passed on to Pakistan and later to Australia. However, as we approach the 13th edition, there is a prevailing conviction that India’s pace bowling trio, comprising Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj, is the best in the business.
The key question is whether Indian team management itself believes in the theory. In the build-up to the World Cup, India has often opted to field only two of these exceptional pace bowlers. Instead of deploying the formidable trio, each possessing distinct skills, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have favoured the combination of two pacers, with Hardik Pandya fulfilling the role of the third fast bowler.
It seemed as though the coaching staff had predetermined, even before the Asia Cup, that Kuldeep Yadav would partner with Ravindra Jadeja while Axar Patel would occupy the role of the spinning all-rounder.
But a few things have happened since that time. Axar Patel’s participation has been ruled out due to a quadriceps injury. Ravichandran Ashwin has made a highly impressive return to One Day Internationals against Australia, and the trio of Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj have consistently displayed exceptional performances in most of their recent matches.
Jasprit Bumrah has maintained a remarkable streak of never going without a wicket in any match since his return from injury. Mohammed Siraj’s incredible performance of 6/21 in the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka at the Premadasa Stadium completely dominated the contest. Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami, in the first game against Australia, achieved a five-wicket haul and has looked at his lethal best.
These outstanding performances have led to a growing belief that India should field all three of these pacers in its lineup. Furthermore, the ICC has given a directive to the centres to leave a bit of grass on the pitch to ensure there is enough assistance for all parties involved. Additionally, the presence of dew during night games might pose challenges for spinners in terms of gripping the ball effectively.