Anil Kumble asserts that South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Jansen, Rabada, and Ngidi, is distinguished by variety and quality. Despite challenging conditions in the Champions Trophy, their distinctive bowling styles effectively disrupt batting line-ups. Their success in the tournament, exemplified by compelling victories, showcases their dominance, making them formidable contenders moving into the knockout stages.
In the ongoing Champions Trophy, Anil Kumble, the former India spinner and head coach, emphasizes that South Africa’s pace trio of Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Lungi Ngidi brings remarkable variety, making them a formidable bowling unit even in challenging conditions. The team’s performance has been stellar, maintaining an unbeaten record and advancing to the semi-finals after victories against England and Afghanistan.
Kumble noted the distinct qualities of South Africa’s fast bowlers. He stated, “All three of their fast bowlers that played today… all of them are really tall. And all of them are different.” This variance in bowling styles creates difficulty for opposing batters, enhancing South Africa’s confidence.
Throughout the tournament, Rabada, Ngidi, and Jansen have collectively secured 11 wickets across two matches, marking them as one of the most effective pace attacks. Kumble articulated how their different bowling angles contribute to their potency, noting, “Rabada is very classical, whereas Ngidi is pretty awkward to face with his action, and Marco Jansen comes at such height.”
Jansen has emerged as a key player, excelling in pace and bounce while disrupting England’s top order. Kumble commended his development and contributions to the team, stating, “I think he’s still very young… So in that sense, he’s a complete package for South Africa at No. 7 or No. 8.” This adaptability highlights the significant depth South Africa has in its bowling attack.
The variety within South Africa’s bowling lineup is crucial, allowing the team to perform effectively in diverse conditions. Kumble concluded that with their quality and variation, South Africa possesses a strong advantage as they progress through the tournament’s critical stages.
In summary, Anil Kumble’s insights underline the critical role of variety within South Africa’s pace attack, comprising impactful players like Jansen, Rabada, and Ngidi. Their distinct bowling styles complicate batting efforts against them, particularly effective even in less favorable conditions. Therefore, South Africa’s well-rounded bowling unit positions them favorably in the ongoing Champions Trophy as they approach the semi-finals.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
