The emergence of Mohit Sharma as a vital cog in India’s pace wheel has enhanced the reputation of the bowling unit. This energetic fast bowler has proved to be the difference to the bowling from the one that failed to make an impact in the preceding Test and tri-series.
India’s World Cup campaign seemed to have suffered a jolt when Ishant Sharma was ruled out due to injury. Mohit came in with expectations high though he and Ishant are vastly different bowlers. Speed may be the common factor but Mohit has slipped into his role with the ease of a veteran. Many must be surprised why he was not picked in the first instance.
When you are good and get a chance, you have to grab it with both hands. Mohit accepted the opportunity and joined the unit, with consistency being his forte. Playing for India itself is a huge motivation and his presence has added weight to the attack.
Mohit has bowled an impeccable length. The toughest part for a bowler is to acclimatise fast because the conditions vary vastly from the sub-continent to Australia. He has consistently bowled at 140-plus, as quick as Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav, and kept the batsmen on guard. To me, Mohit has been exceptionally effective.
The best coaches still believe in the age-old dictum of line and length being essential aspects of good bowling. Mohit reminds me of Munaf Patel, who was also quick, accurate and critical to the attack. Munaf played a big hand in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph by taking crucial wickets. Mohit is playing a similar role in this tournament, with R. Ashwin growing in stature as a match-winning off-spinner.
I am tempted to experiment against Zimbabwe. There is no harm in promoting Suresh Raina and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Both can do with a hit in the middle to avoid rustiness when the time comes to deliver.
I don’t really see any threat to India’s dominance. The first 10 overs that Zimbabwe bowls can be probing but India should be able to establish its supremacy. Every member knows his role. Win this match and move on to the decisive phase of the tournament.
