5 memorable seam bowling spells in cricket
Brian Lara’s unbreakable record of 400 runs in a Test innings or Virender Sehwag’s classic 300 in a Test match against Pakistan, both are edged in the memory of every cricket fan. The fans over the years have been more rejoiced by batting miracles than by a bowling spectacles.
How many of us remember moments of Shane Warne completing his 700 wickets or Dale Steyn bowling a long and tiring spell in Test cricket? A few of us may do. But, these bowling performances are not only crucial in a team’s performance, but also to maintain the standard of cricket and its ability to enthral its fans.
Here are 5 such bowling spells in World cricket which were brilliant in the sense that they were exquisite and worthy enough to be remembered and cherished.
5. Zaheer Khan
Zaheer Khan has been India’s main frontline bowler for years, who has led the bowling attack with complete force and dedication. Though currently out of the team due to fitness issues, he bowled some sensational and match winning bowling spells in his 15-year long career which gave team India a lot of glory over years.
India’s tour to England in 2007, Zaheer was the man of the series for his 18 wickets. His best performance came in second innings of the 2nd Test match where he was unstoppable.
Making perfect use of the new ball, he troubled the batsman with his raw pace and enigmatic swing to take 5 wickets for 75 runs. He bowled 27 overs in his long spell which saw a charismatic display of his reverse swing bowling with the old ball.
4. Shane Bond
New Zealand’s 2nd highest wicket taker, Shane Bond is known to be one of the most destructive bowlers who had the ability to destroy the opposition in no time. Quick and accurate, Bond was difficult to bat against and he retired as one of the most admired Kiwi bowler.
Super sixes match of the 2003 ICC world cup between Australia and New Zealand in port Elizabeth will be a lost memory, but not for the cricket fans who saw a fiery bond on fire with the ball.
The hard surface was having bounce and Bond got the best of the Aussies batsmen. He took 6 wickets by just giving 23 runs and bowled with a consistent speed and perfect line and length. He hardly lost his momentum and bowled a spell which not only provided entertainment to the fans but also proved his worth as the fast bowler.