The excitement around India's coach ended with Ravi Shastri ascending to the throne. Now the excitement has shifted to Zaheer Khan, who has now been appointed the bowling coach of the Indian cricket team. Not many surprises there because the Indian bowling attack needed an experienced name that could propel the likes of Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Especially in overseas conditions. But what are the benefits of having someone like Zak on your side?
Here's how Virat Kohli's men will benefit from Khan's expertise.
In his time, there was barely any bowler better than Zaheer Khan in the death overs. His yorkers have been of superior quality and he possessed a sublime ability to control the old ball. The likes of Bumrah, Shami, Kumar and Yadav need to sharpen their edges when it comes to bowling in the death overs. Khan will obviously be of great help.
His vast experience of bowling in overseas conditions will certainly help the Indian bowlers deliver. Especially in countries such as England, Australia and New Zealand.?
If a good bowling coach is in control of things, he can always help bowlers control the no balls and the wides. Zaheer himself was an economical bowler who didn't give away much in extras. Zaheer's tips will certainly help Bumrah, who has developed the tendency of taking extras too seriously.
India have lost most matches for poor bowling performances. If you look at the India-Pakistan Champions Trophy final, it was mediocre work with the new ball that led to the loss. In such situations, you need someone experienced at the dressing room to propel the Indian bowlers.
Zaheer was the master of reverse swing. His smooth action and seam control dazzled many batsmen. His tips can obviously help Indian bowlers gain the edge in crunch matches.
Khan and Nehra were the most calm and composed bowlers in the Indian camp. Khan can now certainly help the Indian bowlers keep their calm while facing the best batsmen in the world.
Zaheer read match situations like none other. He knew which delivery to bowl where and how to get around the batsmen. Hopefully, the Indian cricket team bowlers should learn from the man.