Brett Lee calls Zaheer Khan a genius

In an exclusive interview with the Times of India (TOI), former Australian speedster Brett Lee spoke about the upcoming New Zealand tour. Lee, who is the head coach of the Kanchi Warriors in the Tamil Nadu Premier League spoke about the New Zealand duo of Trent Boult and Tim Southee, Mitchell Starc and gave general tips on what it takes to be a good pace bowler in India.

He mentioned that the New Zealand pace duo of Boult and Southee have the pace power to trouble the Indian batsmen during the 3 match test series which begins in Kanpur on September 22.

“Yes. They do have. Boult can definitely do a Starc in India. He has the pace to trouble the Indian batters. Boult and Southee combine really well and are good. Though there might not be a lot in the wicket for pacers, they can make use of the new ball. However, reversing the old ball is vital to be successful,” he said.

Brett Lee, who is the head coach of the Kanchi Warriors in the Tamil Nadu Premier League also spoke about Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc and gave general tips on what it takes to be a good pace bowler in India.

Brett Lee was full of praise for former Indian spearhead bowler Zaheer Khan as he complimented him on his pace and ability to swing the ball to great effect against any opposition.

“He is a genius. He swung the new ball, changed his pace, bowled cutters and then possessed great skills to reverse. That's why he was successful in these conditions,” said Lee on his former Indian compatriot.

Zaheer Khan was truly one of the best bowlers to have come out of India. He led the attack for many years and was instrumental in India’s success in major tournaments. He was one of the rare Indian bowlers to have a good combination of pace and swing. His contribution to India’s 2003 and 2011 World Cup campaign is something that will be etched in our memories for many years to come.

In a career which spanned over 15 years, Zaheer took 610 wickets in 309 matches in all 3 formats combined. He still continues to play domestic cricket as he is an integral part of the Delhi Daredevils team in the Indian Premier League.

He was named as one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 2008 and also received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2011.

He was not seen much after the 2011 World Cup and was also plagued by injuries. This led to his retirement from international cricket in October 2015. He will always be remembered for his contributions to Indian cricket.