India’s Fast Bowling Crisis Deepens
India once boasted one of the world’s most dominant fast bowling line-ups. The pace attack of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj was unmatched. Their combined firepower even surpassed Australia Starc, Cummins, and Hazelwood trio. The goal under Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri was clear: consistently pick 20 wickets to win Tests at home and abroad.
Injuries and Pace Decline Threaten India’s Fast Bowling Depth
However, India fast bowling reserves now face a deep crisis. Since Kohli stepped down as Test captain and Bharat Arun ended his role as bowling coach, injuries and slowing pace have exposed gaps. Akash Deep missed the fourth Test in Manchester due to a groin injury. All-rounder Nitish Reddy pulled up his hamstring. Harshit Rana was unexpectedly released before the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh and Abhimanyu Easwaran remain on the bench.
Limited Options Beyond Established Pacers Raise Concerns
So, who is India’s next fast bowling hope? Shami’s injuries may end his career unless a miracle happens. Harshit Rana can hit mid-140s but struggles with consistency. Arshdeep Singh is likely to break into the playing XI soon, yet beyond him, options are scarce. As an Indian support staff member told The Indian Express, “Not many in domestic cricket could touch even 135 kph, the minimum you need in Test cricket.”
Anshul Kamboj perfectly reflects this struggle. Despite strong domestic performances, Kamboj failed on the international stage. He barely touched 130 kph in England, recalling Pankaj Singh’s past struggles in similar conditions.
Akash Deep showed promise during his Test debut last February in England. But once England switched to Bazball, he faded. Prasidh Krishna, though a good wicket-taker, often leaks runs. Many promising bowlers are still far from becoming reliable international pacers.
Beyond these players, India’s fast bowling stock looks bleak. Umran Malik, IPL 2022 sensation, has faded badly. Khaleel Ahmed last played for India in July 2024. Mukesh Kumar hasn’t featured after last year’s T20Is. None are ready to endure the physical grind like Siraj or Bumrah.
India’s future fast bowling depends on developing these players and finding fresh talent quickly. Otherwise, the team risks losing its pace edge in Test cricket.
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