Everybody knows, at least they used to, that new ball has to be made count. There is no two ways about it. Even if you are on flat track with Kookabura Ball, which has less pronounced seam on it, starting few overs with new ball are the one that can make all the difference in the match as new ball gives best chance to pick wickets of the top order batsmen.
I have seen matches in recent times, and have always wondered why our fast bowlers aren't lethal anymore. Unless, a bowler has an express pace in the 150s with some accuracy, I think swing is the most potent weapon he can possess. And a new ball provides that opportunity, no matter what surface we are on. and what conditions you are in.
If a ball is delivered with:
1- Upright still seam, with the seam pointing toward leg stump
2- Ball delivered close to the stumps (Biggest Issue)
3- Ball is provided enough air (yorkers)
Then it will swing, provided all above conditions are met.
Now what Pakistan is doing wrong lately?
1- Our bowlers bowl with wobbly seam.
2- They don't bowl close enough to the stumps.
3- They are either too short, or when bowling full (either too wide or stray on leg side).
Why do you think Wasim was able to swing it with new ball? Granted he was champion, but he was only human and did these basics right.
The best example to do all so, in my mind is Irfan Pathan. He bowled with less than 80mph and picked up a hatrick with this left arm in swing.
Following are the proofs, validating my above comments:
I have seen matches in recent times, and have always wondered why our fast bowlers aren't lethal anymore. Unless, a bowler has an express pace in the 150s with some accuracy, I think swing is the most potent weapon he can possess. And a new ball provides that opportunity, no matter what surface we are on. and what conditions you are in.
If a ball is delivered with:
1- Upright still seam, with the seam pointing toward leg stump
2- Ball delivered close to the stumps (Biggest Issue)
3- Ball is provided enough air (yorkers)
Then it will swing, provided all above conditions are met.
Now what Pakistan is doing wrong lately?
1- Our bowlers bowl with wobbly seam.
2- They don't bowl close enough to the stumps.
3- They are either too short, or when bowling full (either too wide or stray on leg side).
Why do you think Wasim was able to swing it with new ball? Granted he was champion, but he was only human and did these basics right.
The best example to do all so, in my mind is Irfan Pathan. He bowled with less than 80mph and picked up a hatrick with this left arm in swing.
Following are the proofs, validating my above comments:
