“Not Jasprit Bumrah but Mohammed Shami is India’s Best Bowler”: Andy Roberts
Legendary West Indies cricketer Andy Roberts praised Mohammed Shami. He called him Team India’s best bowler. Roberts, a legend of the West Indies’ golden era, bowled with Michael Holding, Joel Garner, and Colin Croft. He praised Shami’s unmatched control and his ability to swing and seam the ball both ways. He also noted Shami’s consistency among Indian bowlers.
Shami vs Bumrah: Roberts’ Take
In an interview with Mid-Day, Roberts compared Shami with India’s ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Roberts acknowledged Bumrah’s wicket-taking skills. But, he said Shami is the more complete bowler.
“Shami has been the team’s best bowler. He may not take the number of wickets Jasprit Bumrah gets but he is a complete bowler and is consistent than other bowlers in the ream. He swings and seams the ball and his control is not less than Bumrah’s,” Roberts told Mid-day.
Siraj vs Shami: No Contest, Says Roberts
Roberts also dismissed comparisons between Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj. He said that Siraj cannot match Shami’s class and experience.
“Mohammed Shami should play in Australia as Siraj is nowhere near Shami,” he added.
Shami’s Current Form and Border-Gavaskar Trophy Status
Roberts endorsed Shami. But, it is now uncertain if he can play in the rest of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He is currently in India, representing Bengal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Shami showcased his all-round ability in Bengal’s pre-quarterfinal against Chandigarh. He scored 32 runs off 17 balls and bowled 13 dot balls in four overs. His efforts led his team to the quarter-finals.
As of now, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is tied 1-1, with the third Test set to begin at the Gabba on December 13.
Mohammed Shami: A Bowler of Substance
Mohammed Shami is one of the best seamers of his generation. He is a key player for Team India. His ability to create seam and swing, with accuracy, makes him a reliable weapon in both red and white ball formats.
Shami and Bumrah’s comparison shows India’s pace attack is strong. Bumrah is often the face of Indian fast bowling. But, Shami’s match-winning spells have caught the eye of greats like Andy Roberts.
As the series in Australia heats up, India may need to trust Shami to win the remaining matches.
