India’s bowling performance in the World Cup 2023 has been nothing short of exceptional. In the seven matches played, they conceded 200-plus runs in only three matches, showcasing their ability to maintain control over the opposition’s scoring.
One of the striking features of India’s bowling unit is its versatility under varying conditions. In matches played under lights or with conditions favorable to fast bowlers, the trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj have excelled. They’ve bowled out teams for remarkably low scores, such as England for 129 and Sri Lanka for a mere 55.
On slower pitches, spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav have taken the lead. They have effectively choked the opposition, picking up crucial wickets in the middle overs. The spin duo has played a pivotal role in controlling the game when the pitch favors spin.
Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has lauded India’s transformation into a “ruthless side.” He believes that this onslaught will continue throughout the tournament. India’s ability to adapt to different conditions and oppositions has been a significant factor in their success.
“India is becoming a ruthless side from this point; the onslaught cannot be stopped, but my request to Indians is to start celebrating your fast bowlers because everyone was happy, and there was a lot of noise on each delivery at the Wankhede Stadium,” Akhtar said in a video posted on X.
Time for India to start celebrating their Fast bowlers. #INDvsSL pic.twitter.com/dQklgFNUpL
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) November 2, 2023
One of the standout performers in India’s bowling attack has been Mohammed Shami. He registered his best bowling figures of 5/18 in a crucial match. Shami’s consistency and remarkable form have made him a force to be reckoned with. He has taken 14 wickets in just three appearances in this World Cup, surpassing Zaheer Khan and Javagal Srinath to become India’s highest wicket-taker in World Cups. Shami now boasts the best average (12.29) and best strike rate (15.75) among all bowlers who have taken more than 30 wickets in the history of World Cups.
Before the match against Sri Lanka, there were question marks about Mohammed Siraj’s form. However, the right-arm pacer silenced the critics with a remarkable performance. He struck on his first ball and picked up three wickets without conceding a run. Siraj finished with figures of 3/15, displaying his exceptional skills and composure under pressure.
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Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, has been lethal. His ability to strike early in the innings has been a game-changer. Bumrah’s consistency and pace have provided India with a significant advantage.
During one point in the match against Sri Lanka, their scorecard read 3 for 4, with Mohammed Siraj’s figures reading 3/0. The domination was such that it was difficult to differentiate between the runs and wickets, as acknowledged by Shoaib Akhtar.
In a match where India posted a target of 358, Sri Lanka succumbed to 55 runs in just 19.4 overs. This marked the third time in the year that Sri Lanka was bowled out for less than 100 in ODIs against India. The comprehensive victory by a margin of 302 runs propelled India into the semi-finals of World Cup 2023.
