In an interview with an international sports outlet, Wasim Akram, the former Pakistan captain and legendary fast bowler, shared his insights on how India’s left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh can enhance his performance. Akram suggested that Arshdeep should adopt a strategy similar to that of Pakistan’s left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, particularly by focusing on bowling fuller deliveries in the initial phase of the innings.
Akram highlighted that the conditions in the West Indies, where the pitches are not as flat as those in the IPL or Pakistan, could be advantageous for Arshdeep. He emphasized the importance of taking advantage of the new ball by pitching it up, which can help generate movement and make it challenging for batsmen. “He (Arshdeep) will get some help with the new ball in West Indies. The pitches are not very flat like we have seen in the IPL or Pakistan. He can take a chance with the new ball and pitch it up. Bowl like Shaheen Afridi,” Akram advised.
Akram recommended a specific field placement to support this bowling strategy. He suggested that Arshdeep should keep the mid-on and mid-off fielders positioned straighter to provide a safety net in case he misses his mark with a yorker. “He can try that. Keep the mid-on and mid-off a bit straighter, so even if he misses the mark with the yorker, the two fielders can stop the straight shots,” Akram explained.
In addition to the advice for the initial overs, Akram also provided guidance for Arshdeep’s approach in the death overs. He recommended that Arshdeep incorporate variations into his bowling during his second spell. “For his second spell, he should be using variations,” Akram said. He expressed his belief in Arshdeep’s potential to become a regular feature in the Indian bowling lineup and encouraged him to aim for a long-term career in Test cricket. “While I’ve not seen him very closely recently, I think he’s got the potential to be a regular bowler for India, and I hope he has Test cricket in his mind. You can earn money and be famous for a year in T20s, but if you want to leave a legacy behind, you will have to think of the longest format,” Akram added.
This advice comes at a crucial time as India competes in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, is currently placed at No. 2 in Super 8’s Group 1 after securing a victory against Afghanistan by 47 runs. Their next match is against Bangladesh at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua and Barbuda. Akram’s insights could be valuable for Arshdeep as India seeks to advance further in the tournament.
