Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the Border-Gavaskar Trophy clash between India and Australia, set to kick off on November 22 in Australia. This year's series brings a slight format change, with the teams scheduled to play five Tests instead of the usual four. As discussions intensify around India's potential squad, the spotlight is on the bowling line-up, featuring stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj. However, there's also growing interest in the emerging talents who could make an impact.
Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun recently highlighted the importance of identifying and nurturing promising fast bowlers from the IPL for the Australian tour. He suggested that selectors should provide these bowlers with 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. There are many bowlers in the IPL who 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.
Arun emphasised the need for these bowlers to become accustomed to red-ball cricket. "These bowlers need to get used 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.
He also praised Mohammed Siraj, calling him 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.