Cricket enthusiasts around the globe are eagerly anticipating the showdown between India and Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin on November 22 in Australia. This edition will see a slight format change, with the teams scheduled to play five Tests instead of the usual four. As discussions heat up around India's potential squad, much of the focus has turned to the bowling line-up. With stalwarts like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj in the spotlight, attention is also shifting to other emerging talents.
Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun recently emphasised the importance of identifying and nurturing promising fast bowlers from the IPL for the tour. He suggested that selectors should give these bowlers ample opportunities in red-ball cricket to prepare them for the challenges ahead.
"It's about finding the right talent and giving them the chance to be ready for the Australian tour. Many bowlers in the IPL can consistently bowl at 140-150 kph. The key is to nurture them and provide the right exposure," Arun said in an interview with the Indian Express.
He further stressed the importance of familiarising these bowlers with red-ball cricket. "These bowlers need to get accustomed to red-ball cricket. We have time, but it’s crucial to prepare them by ensuring they get enough overs under their belt," he added.
Arun also heaped praise on Mohammed Siraj, describing him as one of the most "dangerous bowlers" in world cricket today.
"Bowling in first-class cricket teaches you to adapt on unresponsive pitches. You either have to develop some guile or learn how to reverse the ball, given the conditions in our country," Arun explained. "This experience has greatly benefited both Siraj and Shami. That’s why, when conditions favour reverse swing, Siraj is probably one of the most dangerous bowlers in world cricket," he concluded.