India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has pushed back on comparisons between star bowlers Ben Stokes and Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing that each player brings unique strengths to the field.
The Stokes Masterclass at Lord’s
During the recent 3rd Test at Lord’s, England’s Ben Stokes delivered a remarkable performance, bowling marathon spells of over nine and ten overs consecutively. His intense effort was crucial in applying pressure on the Indian lineup, ultimately contributing to England’s 22-run victory.
This impressive display from Stokes led many cricket experts to question if India should have utilized Jasprit Bumrah more in a similar long-spell capacity. The debate centered on whether India’s pace spearhead could have emulated Stokes’ workload.
“We Have Our Own Strengths,” Says Doeschate
Ryan ten Doeschate, however, quickly dismissed these comparisons. He lauded Stokes’ “super impressive” effort but stressed that not every player needs to follow the same template.
“We’re not here to compare our bowlers to individuals from other teams. We have our own strengths,” Doeschate stated. He highlighted that Bumrah operates best in “shorter spells,” which is his preferred and most effective approach.
The coach emphasized the importance of individual consultation, noting that the team decides how to best utilize Bumrah based on his strengths and comfort. “Not everyone has to be the same,” he added, underlining the tailored approach to player management.
Managing the Lionheart: Mohammed Siraj
Doeschate also spoke highly of Mohammed Siraj, acknowledging his immense heart and willingness to bowl extra overs, much like Stokes. Siraj, he noted, is a bowler who never shies away from a challenge or workload.
“We take for granted how lucky we are to have someone like that,” Doeschate remarked. While Siraj may not always have the headline-grabbing returns, his presence brings a unique dynamic to the bowling attack, making something feel possible whenever he has the ball.
Despite Siraj’s eagerness, Doeschate stressed the critical need to manage his workload carefully. Ensuring Siraj remains fit is paramount for the team, allowing him to consistently give his best on the field.
- Ryan ten Doeschate believes individual player strengths should dictate bowling strategy.
- Jasprit Bumrah is most effective in shorter, impactful spells, tailored to his preference.
- Mohammed Siraj is praised for his “lion heart” and willingness to take on workload, making him a vital asset.
- Managing bowlers’ workload, especially those like Siraj who don’t shy away, is crucial for sustained performance.
The coaching staff continues to evaluate player combinations, especially with an eye on upcoming matches and the injury status of players like Arshdeep Singh, ensuring the best possible lineup for the team.
