Mohit Sharma – A long way to go

Right now, the compact Indian bowling attack – consisting of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Umesh Yadav – is good enough to rip through any batting order. Ishant Sharma is also there, but his below-par bowling keeps him away from being trusted as a consistent performer. In this scenario, the sudden origin of Mohit Mahipal Sharma might prove to be a viable option, an option that seems ready to be explored.

He demonstrated some spark, when he got the man of the match award on his debut in ODIs. He really impressed everyone by his effective and economical spell of bowling against Zimbabwe in the 4^th ODI of the series. His figures read 2 for 26 in 10 overs. Playing his very first match, this was a decent return. Even in today’s match, he took 1 for 25 in 6 overs – a good return under any conditions. Albeit, this is only Zimbabwe, but his consistency in the IPL also suggests he could be a big find!

Now, let us have a quick look over his profile.

Born in Ballabhgarh, Haryana on 18^th September 1988, Mohit will be completing 25 years of age in two months time. Although he could be termed as a late arrival to the international stage, 25 is not too late. He seems to be a good young swing bowler. Although he is said to be a useful lower order batsman as well, he is yet to prove his batting skills. However, he has got a reasonable batting average of 19 runs in first class cricket so far. He has been playing for Haryana in the domestic circuit since 2011. He played for Chennai Super Kings in IPL during the 2013 season.

He did pretty well in the IPL, taking 20 wickets in 15 matches. Fair enough for a beginner. Incidentally, Mohit bowled really well during the powerplays in the IPL. Mohit was able to draw the media’s attention when he picked up 37 wickets in Ranji Trophy last year. That too, from just 7 games – at a good bowling average of 23. Mohit has been trained by well-established pace bowling coach Ian Pont. Just like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, he bowls at a decent speed of around 130 kmph. I strongly believe that by bowling a dedicated line and length, and by virtue of the correct guidance, Mohit can be converted into another Bhuvneshwar Kumar!

Though it is too early to predict anything, but being a similar kind of bowler, Mohit can hopefully compliment Bhuvneshwar Kumar from the other end. Even their body language and level of confidence appears similar.

The upcoming Champions League might prove to be a good platform for Mohit Sharma to showcase his talent again and cement his position in Team India. Good to see young bowling talent coming through.