Zaheer Khan, a former Indian cricketing maestro known for his swing and seam, has recently shared his insights on what he considers the ‘fab four’ of contemporary fast bowling. In an era where pace bowling has evolved significantly, Khan’s selection of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Kagiso Rabada, and Josh Hazlewood, alongside the occasional mention of Pat Cummins, offers a deep dive into the qualities that define today’s top seamers.
Jasprit Bumrah: The Unconventional Ace
Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in Khan’s list comes as no surprise. Known for his unique action and the ability to extract bounce from any surface, Bumrah has redefined what it means to be a fast bowler. His mastery over the yorker, especially in the death overs, and his knack for bowling in the powerplay with precision, makes him a modern-day phenomenon. Zaheer Khan appreciates Bumrah’s ability to adapt his line and length according to the pitch, a trait that echoes Khan’s own versatility during his playing days.
“India have played two consecutive World Test Championship finals and are one of the best teams in the world. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are part of my Fab Four.
“Apart from these two, I would pick Kagiso Rabada and Josh Hazlewood. Pat Cummins is also good. These are the four or five bowlers who have made an impact in red-ball format,” Zaheer Khan Said
“Gautam Gambhir wants to win and he is passionate about cricket. These qualities made him a good cricketer and I am sure he will continue to follow them in his coaching stint as well. He will improve as a coach,” Zaheer Khan concluded.
Mohammad Shami: The Seam Wizard
Mohammad Shami, often seen as Bumrah’s partner in crime, brings a different flavor to the table. His ability to move the ball both ways, especially with the old ball, resonates with Khan’s own bowling style. Shami’s recent performances, particularly in high-pressure situations, have cemented his reputation as a bowler who can deliver when it matters most. Khan’s admiration for Shami’s seam position and his ability to make the ball talk even on flat tracks highlights Shami’s technical prowess.
Kagiso Rabada: The South African Sensation
Rabada’s inclusion in the list is a testament to his explosive pace and relentless aggression. His ability to generate steep bounce and his lethal bouncer has made him a nightmare for batsmen worldwide. Zaheer Khan points out Rabada’s intelligence in varying his pace and his ability to bowl long spells without losing his edge, qualities that are rare and invaluable in the modern game.
Josh Hazlewood: The Metronome
Josh Hazlewood, often overshadowed by his Australian teammates, brings a different dimension with his accuracy and control. His ability to maintain a tight line and length, coupled with his height, which allows him to extract awkward bounce, makes him a crucial cog in any bowling attack. Zaheer Khan’s mention of Hazlewood underscores the importance of consistency in bowling, a trait Hazlewood exemplifies with his metronomic precision.
Pat Cummins: The Captain’s Arm
While not always in the ‘fab four’, Pat Cummins’ leadership qualities and his ability to lead from the front with both bat and ball make him a notable mention. His recent performances, especially in Test cricket, where he has been pivotal in Australia’s success, highlight his all-round capabilities. Khan’s occasional reference to Cummins reflects the bowler’s growing stature in the cricketing world.
Zaheer Khan’s analysis doesn’t just stop at praising these bowlers; it’s a reflection on how the game has evolved. The emphasis on fitness, skill variety, and mental toughness in today’s bowlers mirrors the changes Khan himself adapted to during his career. His insights provide a bridge between the past and present, offering a glimpse into what makes a fast bowler great in the contemporary cricketing landscape. Whether it’s the raw pace of Rabada, the swing of Shami, the accuracy of Hazlewood, or the all-round brilliance of Cummins, Khan’s ‘fab four’ are not just bowlers; they are the embodiment of what modern cricket demands from its pace spearheads.
