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'Masterful performance on challenging Ranchi pitch': Anil Kumble commends Shoaib Bashir's performance

Kumble acknowledged the calculated risk taken by the England management in bringing Bashir on the India tour

By Omar | Feb 25, 2024 | 2 Min Read

Indian cricket legend Anil Kumble has showered praise on England spinner Shoaib Bashir for his exceptional showing in the ongoing fourth Test against India. Kumble highlighted Bashir’s adept handling of the demanding Ranchi surface, emphasizing that the young spinner has found the perfect pace for the conditions. The former Indian spinner credited the England team management for their shrewd decision in selecting Bashir, who impressed with a four-wicket haul in a 32-over spell, conceding 83 runs. Among Bashir’s notable scalps were Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, and Ravindra Jadeja.

Speaking on JioCinema, Kumble acknowledged the calculated risk taken by the England management in bringing Bashir on the India tour, influenced by Alastair Cook’s experience facing him and Ben Stokes’ brief encounter. Kumble was particularly impressed with Bashir’s off-spinning skills, highlighting the rarity of off-spinners choosing to bowl from over the stumps to right-handers. He also commended Bashir’s consistent line and praised the spinner’s adeptness at maintaining the right pace for the challenging Ranchi surface, emphasizing the precision of his length.

Shoaib Bashir has left a significant mark in the two Tests he has played, securing eight wickets at an average of 35 and an economy rate of 3.29, with his best bowling figures standing at 4/84.

In the ongoing match, England amassed a total of 353 runs in their first innings, propelled by Joe Root’s exceptional century (122*). India’s bowlers, notably Ravindra Jadeja (4/67) and debutant Akash Deep (3/83), showcased their skills. In the second innings, India concluded day two at 219/7, with contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) and Shubman Gill (38). England’s spin duo, featuring Shoaib Bashir (4/84) and Tom Hartley (2/47), dominated proceedings, giving the Three Lions a commanding lead of 134 runs.