As the Asia Cup 2023 and World Cup 2023 draw near, the Indian cricket team faces the crucial task of proving its mettle on the global stage and clinching an ICC title after a decade-long drought. A notable vulnerability for the team has been their struggles against left-arm pacers, a challenge that New Zealand’s Tim Southee shed light on during an awards event in Mumbai. With marquee players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shubman Gill in their ranks, the Indian team must address this weakness to enhance their chances of success.
In recent times, the Indian batting lineup has encountered difficulties when facing left-arm pacers, who have consistently disrupted their top-heavy order. The prominence of left-arm pacers like Shaheen Afridi and Trent Boult has posed a significant challenge for India’s star-studded batting lineup. This has raised concerns about the team’s preparedness to tackle such bowlers effectively, especially as they gear up for major 50-over competitions.
Tim Southee, the stand-in captain for New Zealand, provided his perspective on India’s approach to facing left-arm pacers during an awards function in Mumbai. Acknowledging the calibre of Indian players, Southee expressed his belief that they would formulate solid game plans to counter left-arm pacers like Shaheen Afridi and Trent Boult. Southee emphasized that the rarity of facing left-arm bowlers could pose challenges, but he maintained faith in the Indian team’s adaptability and strategic prowess.
Southee said, “I don’t know what it is, but it was always handy to have a left arm, something probably people don’t face a lot of. Those two guys that you mentioned, Shaheen Shah and Trent Boult, are quality bowlers and have caused a lot of players headaches over the years. I do not think it is too much of an issue. I’m sure the Indian player’s world-class players will have solid game plans to whoever bowler they come up against.”
Southee’s observations highlight the importance of developing tailored strategies to combat left-arm pacers effectively. The experience gained from the Indian Premier League (IPL) could play a pivotal role in helping Indian batters refine their techniques against such bowlers. While left-arm pacers have been successful in troubling India’s top order, the onus is on the team’s coaching staff and players to identify weaknesses and work on countering them before the major tournaments.
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Shaheen Afridi’s rise to prominence was punctuated by his impressive performance against India in the T20 World Cup 2021. His ability to dismiss top-tier batters such as Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli showcased the challenge that left-arm pacers can pose. Afridi’s effectiveness has set the stage for his presence in the upcoming Asia Cup 2023, where India will face Pakistan on September 2nd at Pallekele.
