Gillespie: These Bowlers Are 'Unplayable' in Modern Cricket
It's a question that's been debated for ages: who are the most dominant bowlers in the game today? And while everyone has their own opinion, Australian legend Brett Gillespie has thrown his weight behind a select few, calling them "unplayable" in modern cricket.
Gillespie's criteria? Speed, accuracy, and the ability to consistently trouble batters. He's not just talking about quick wickets, but bowlers who can dismantle batsmen mentally, forcing them to play outside their comfort zone.
And who are these "unplayable" bowlers, according to the Aussie great? Let's take a look:
The Kings of Swing:
1. Pat Cummins: The current Aussie captain is a true force of nature. He can swing the ball both ways at serious pace, and his control is absolutely top-notch. Gillespie calls him "a complete bowler" who can adapt to any condition.
2. Jasprit Bumrah: India's go-to man is a real enigma. His awkward action and uncanny pace make him near impossible to read. He's the ultimate wicket-taker, and Gillespie believes he's the most dangerous bowler in the world right now.
3. Kagiso Rabada: The South African speedster is known for his sheer aggression. He bowls with fire in his belly, and his ability to extract bounce from any pitch makes him a constant threat. Gillespie raves about his ability to consistently challenge the batter's technique.
The Spin Wizards:
4. Rashid Khan: The Afghan leg-spinner is a master of deception. His googly is truly special, and his ability to spin the ball both ways makes him a nightmare for batters. Gillespie marvels at his knack for taking wickets at crucial moments.
5. Nathan Lyon: The Aussie off-spinner is the epitome of patience and cunning. His ability to bowl consistently in the right areas makes him a real pain for batters. Gillespie notes that he's a master of getting the ball to bounce and turn, making him almost unplayable on certain pitches.
Beyond the "Unplayables":
Of course, Gillespie acknowledges that there are other incredible bowlers out there. He's a big fan of the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Stuart Broad, and Trent Boult, among others.
The key takeaway? The game of cricket is always evolving, and the art of bowling is more nuanced than ever. These "unplayable" bowlers are a testament to the skill and dedication needed to be successful at the highest level. And their performances are sure to continue to inspire generations of bowlers to come.