Former Captain says ‘Eyes are kept shut for some teams’
Former Pakistani cricket captain Inzamamul Haq expressed concerns about Arshdeep Singh’s ability to achieve reverse swing as early as the 15th over during India’s win over Australia in the T20 World Cup 2024. Inzamam suggested on a talk show that umpires need to be vigilant about such occurrences.
“When Arshdeep Singh was bowling the 15th over, the ball was already showing signs of reverse swing. Is it too early for the ball to reverse with the new ball? This suggests that the ball could have been ready for reverse swing as early as the 12th or 13th over. Umpires should be observant and alert to these developments,” Inzamam remarked.
Former teammate Salim Malik, who was banned from all cricket in 2000 for match-fixing, shared similar sentiments.
“Sometimes, eyes are closed to these matters, especially when it concerns certain teams like India. I recall in Zimbabwe, Wasim Akram managed to make one side of the ball wet, which surprised us all. When I raised the issue, I was fined heavily,” Malik stated.
Inzamam also noted that if Pakistani bowlers had achieved reverse swing so early in a match, it would have sparked controversy.
“If Pakistani bowlers had achieved reverse swing this early, it would have been a major issue. We are well-versed in the art of reverse swing. If Arshdeep can come in and start reversing the ball by the 15th over, it indicates significant preparation beforehand.
“Bumrah can achieve reverse swing due to his bowling action, but for other bowlers, achieving it depends on the ball’s condition and thorough preparation. Perhaps the pitch conditions contributed to the ball becoming roughed up on one side, but these aspects should not go unnoticed,” Inzamam added.