Jasprit Bumrah, one of the fastest bowlers in India, has a secret weapon that sets him apart – his slower ball. Let’s delve into the artistry and effectiveness of Bumrah’s slower deliveries that leave batsmen bewildered.
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Bumrah’s slower ball is like a rare gem, not unleashed every day but when it is, it captivates the audience and leaves batsmen scratching their heads. Despite being known for his express pace, some of Bumrah’s most memorable moments come from his slower deliveries.
What makes Bumrah’s slower ball special is his unique bowling action. With a short run-up and explosive action, he releases the ball closer to the batsman than most bowlers. This reduces the reaction time for batsmen, making it challenging for them to decode the change of pace.
The magic lies in the subtlety of Bumrah’s drop in pace. Unlike others, he doesn’t drastically change his action or mess with the seam. He gives microscopic clues, like holding his palm skywards during the slower balls and holding the ball slightly deeper in his palms. These tiny details make it nearly impossible for batsmen to predict the variation.
Interestingly, Bumrah doesn’t use a variety of slower balls like the knuckleball. His go-to is the off-cutter, where he cuts the ball with his fingers to make it loop in the air, typically moving into the right-handed batsman.
Mastery of lengths and angles adds another layer to Bumrah’s slower ball brilliance. Whether it’s a full-length delivery swerving in the air or a good length ball outside the off-stump, Bumrah can execute them all with precision.
Bumrah is not bound by preferences in lengths; he can surprise batsmen from any length. He sets traps and double-bluffs, manipulating field placements to confuse batsmen about his next move. This adaptability makes him a master tactician.
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The key to Bumrah’s slower ball success is its sparing use. He doesn’t rely on it as a last-ditch effort but deploys it strategically when he senses an opportunity. Bumrah’s arsenal includes natural and acquired skills like in-swing, away-swing, bouncers, and yorkers. The genius lies in his ability to choose the right weapon at the right moment, making him an indispensable asset for the Indian cricket team.