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Pujara names all-time top 5 Indian fast bowlers: India's experienced and reliable batsman, Cheteshwar Pujara, has witnessed the evolution of Indian fast bowling at close quarters throughout his long international Test career. From the swing-dominated era of the 90s to today's lethal pace attacks, Pujara has seen it all. In a recent conversation with ESPNcricinfo, he selected his top 5 Indian Test fast bowlers of all time.
Interestingly, several big names from the current era such as Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar were missing from Pujara's dream list, sparking a fresh debate among cricket fans.
Cheteshwar Pujara's All-Time Top 5 Indian Test Bowlers
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Cheteshwar Pujara included five bowlers from India's Test history in his list players who played a pivotal role in transforming the face of Indian cricket:
- Kapil Dev: The 1983 World Cup-winning captain and India's greatest all-rounder. Kapil Dev laid the foundation for Indian fast bowling at a time when the country was primarily known for its spinners. His outswingers and fitness remain exemplary to this day.
- Zaheer Khan: A master of reverse swing and the mastermind behind the Indian pace attack. Zaheer Khan not only took wickets himself but also orchestrated historic overseas victories for India through his expert handling of both the new and old balls.
- Javagal Srinath: In the 1990s, when Indian fast bowling was struggling, Javagal Srinath stood tall as the backbone of the pace attack. His ability to consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 140 km/h, combined with his bounce, troubled even the best overseas batsmen.
- Jasprit Bumrah: One of modern cricket's most lethal bowlers, known for his unorthodox action. Bumrah has instilled a winning habit in the Indian team, particularly in overseas Test matches. His yorkers and seam movement make him the most dangerous bowler in the world.
- Ishant Sharma: India's most reliable workhorse, having played over 100 Tests. The way Ishant transformed himself in the second half of his career bowling long spells and dismantling opposition teams is the reason Pujara has included him in his all-time top 5.
Also Read: Youngest Indian Batter to 3000 Test Runs: Shubman Gill Surpasses Kapil Dev
Why Mohammed Siraj Missed the Top 5 Cut
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During the conversation, when Pujara was asked whether Mohammed Siraj ranks among India's top 10 fast bowlers, he stated without hesitation:
"Yes, absolutely. Siraj has performed brilliantly on both Indian and overseas pitches. He works very hard for the team and is certainly among India's top 10 Test bowlers."
However, when asked if Siraj makes it into his all-time top 5, he clearly said, "Probably not."
Pujara believes that while Siraj possesses immense potential and played a pivotal role in India's victories in Australia and England, securing a spot in the all-time top 5 requires extensive experience and a sustained impact akin to that of legends like Kapil, Zaheer, or Bumrah. Siraj has firmly established himself among India's top 10 bowlers, but he needs to further advance his Test career to break into the elite top 5 list.
Also Read: Top 5 Highest Test Scores by Wicketkeeper-Batsmen
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