Umar Gul's debut in International Cricket

Umar Gul

Here, we will take a look at Umar Gul's debut in international cricket. The lean and wiry fast bowler from Peshawar has been instrumental in destroying many strong batting lineups, making it a point to stay away from controversies unlike some of his other Pakistani counterparts. Gul's impeccable line and length has garnered much praise from the cricket community, one of them primarily being the Pakistani legend himself, Wasim Akram. His uncanny ability to hit the seam, his arsenal of slower deliveries and deadly yorkers has made him one of the most feared bowlers in the game, especially with the older ball. The way he wreaks havoc in the oppoosition lineup in the shorter formats, where bowling accuracy is of insurmountable importance, is something to gawk upon.

His early years started by bowling with the tape-ball which turned out to be really effective as, after just nine first-class matches, he was called up to a stuttering Pakistan squad for the Cherry Blossom Sharjah Cup. He made his debut in the first ODI of this tournament against Zimbabwe, where he had an impressive bowling figure of 7-2-25-2, helping Pakistan to clinch a 69 run victory. He later made his Test debut in the same year against Bangladesh.

Though hindered by a back surgery for two years, Gul continued his monumental bowling prowess by baffling batsmen with his accuracy and hence, making wickets fall like ninepins. Especially in the shorter formats, he has been truly devastating, as he stands as the second-most highest wicket taker in T20 history, second only to his teammate Saeed Ajmal. A true mastermind with the ball and a proven winner for his team.