Should Zaheer open the bowling again?

karina · March 22, 2004, 3:57pm

This might not sound like a big deal, but I think it’s time Zaheer opened the bowling again. He’s got his rhythm back to a large extent. He’s also a strike bowler who performed because of PRIDE as the premier bowler. I have noticed a sad look about him. He was so thrilled to take over from Srinath.

Balaji is doing a fine job but he is not a wicket taker. For the 5th ODI Ganguly should seriously consider giving Zaheer his job back, with Irfan as second bowler, and Balaji first change. Ideally Zaheer should bowl only 5 overs, then bring him back in the middle for 2-3 overs.

Captain1 · March 22, 2004, 4:31pm

Zaheer should do what Sami should, 1st change bowler. Both are good, but better as 1st change.

ahmadjee · March 22, 2004, 5:38pm

I have been much impressed by Balaji .. even though he was throwly pounded by Inzi, I don't think it was his fault.

Zaheer gets carried away, and maybe dangerous to trust in the first 15 overs. I would go with Balaji and Pathan.

Mr_Xtreme · March 22, 2004, 5:40pm

Zaheer bowls a lot better at the end of an innings than he does at the beginning. I've liked the way he's bowled at the death but he hasn't used the new ball well in this series.

fair_balance · March 22, 2004, 6:38pm

Answer is NO. !!!!
For 2 reasons...

Formula of bringing Zaheer at one change has worked. and he is our best bowler at death overs.
You dont wana start the inning with 2 left arm bowler unless you are suggesting Irfan to come one change. Left right combination bring variety and forces batsmen to adjust.

kaka_in_usa · March 22, 2004, 9:48pm

:k:

system · March 22, 2004, 9:58pm

I think irfan is doing well with the new ball as compared to the zaheer . So zaheer must not be bring to open the ball . Irfan and balaji are the best combination to open.
I agree with the f&B pointof view.

Faisal · March 22, 2004, 10:41pm

Re: Should Zaheer open the bowling again?

Bechara Zaheer

smooth_guy · March 23, 2004, 1:11am

[QUOTE]
*Originally posted by fair_&_balance: *
Answer is NO. !!!!
For 2 reasons...

Formula of bringing Zaheer at one change has worked. and he is our best bowler at death overs.
You dont wana start the inning with 2 left arm bowler unless you are suggesting Irfan to come one change. Left right combination bring variety and forces batsmen to adjust.
[/QUOTE]

I second that.