Reverse swing is a powerful tool for fast bowlers. It became harder to use after the International Cricket Council (ICC) banned saliva because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Mohammed Shami, India’s leading fast bowler, shared his worries about this rule after India won against Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final. He believes saliva is important for getting reverse swing back into the game. “We are trying to reverse swing, but without saliva, it’s tough. We hope they will let us use it again,” Shami said after India’s win in Dubai.
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), reverse swing is rare now since there are always two new balls, which makes it tougher for fast bowlers, even before the saliva ban. Shami was a key player for India in the semi-final, taking 3 wickets for 48 runs in 10 overs, helping India win by four wickets.
Shami’s role is especially crucial because star bowler Jasprit Bumrah is injured. On Tuesday, Shami was one of just two fast bowlers in the team, along with Hardik Pandya, who is more of an all-rounder. “I’m working on my rhythm to help the team more. It’s a big responsibility when we are short of proper fast bowlers,” Shami said. He is leading the pace attack in the Champions Trophy, sharing the new ball with either Harshit Rana or Pandya. While Rana is still learning at the international level, Pandya doesn’t usually bowl 10 overs regularly.
With eight wickets in the tournament so far, Shami has stepped up in Bumrah’s absence. He acknowledged that being the main pace bowler is tough but is determined to give his best for India. “When you’re the main bowler and the other is an all-rounder, you have to take the lead and take wickets,” Shami explained.
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