Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has weighed in on Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah's recent comments about the lack of opportunities for pace bowlers in leadership roles. Bumrah had expressed his belief that pacers can excel as captains, citing the examples of Kapil Dev and Imran Khan. However, Ali has a different perspective.
Ali contends that both Dev and Khan were successful captains because they were all-rounders, not solely bowlers. He believes that this distinction is crucial when considering fast bowlers for leadership roles.
“About Jasprit Bumrah’s statement, it’s just like how Babar Azam likes captaincy. In my opinion, he should not chase captaincy. He is a top-class bowler and should be focusing just on that,” Ali stated in a YouTube video.
He further emphasized the difference between bowlers and all-rounders in the context of captaincy, highlighting that Dev and Khan were appointed captains after establishing themselves as all-rounders.
While acknowledging the success of Australian pacer Pat Cummins as a captain, Ali pointed out that such instances are rare. Most fast bowlers, he believes, struggle to transition into successful leadership roles.
“He also spoke about Pat Cummins. Yes, Cummins is a good captain, but there are very few fast bowlers who can become a good coach or captain. My best wishes to Jasprit Bumrah. There is a chance that he could be made the captain after the Champions Trophy,” Ali added.
Bumrah has previously led India in limited-overs cricket, but Ali’s comments suggest that the former Pakistan cricketer believes the Indian pacer should focus on his bowling rather than aspiring for the captaincy.
Also Read: IPL 2025 new retention rules will be announced soon
Give Your Feedback