Zaheer Khan names his 'Fab Four' pacers; highlights Gautam Gambhir's coaching style
Zaheer Khan Pic:x
Xtra Time Web Desk: Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan has named Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami among his top picks in the "Fab Four" of current Test pacers, highlighting their pivotal role in India’s success in recent years. In an interview with *Cricbuzz*, Zaheer discussed his selection of top fast bowlers, which also includes South Africa's Kagiso Rabada, and Australia’s Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.
"India has been performing exceptionally well, reaching two World Test Championship finals, and they’ve been consistent across all conditions," Zaheer said. "So, I would definitely pick Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami in my Fab Four. Apart from them, Kagiso Rabada and Josh Hazlewood have also made a significant impact. Pat Cummins is a contender as well."
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Bumrah and Shami's Key Role
Zaheer praised the contributions of Bumrah and Shami to India’s Test success, noting their crucial role in leading the Indian pace attack across all formats. While Bumrah continues to be a mainstay in India's bowling lineup—currently featuring in the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur—Shami is recovering from ankle surgery but remains an important player for India’s upcoming tours, particularly the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia.
Zaheer’s comments underscore the significant influence these pacers have had on India's performances in recent years, especially in challenging overseas conditions.
Gautam Gambhir's Coaching Philosophy Mirrors His Playing Days
In addition to discussing the Fab Four, Zaheer Khan also spoke about his former India teammate Gautam Gambhir, comparing his coaching style to the way he played during his cricketing career. Zaheer pointed out that Gambhir's passion for winning and his approach to the game as a player are reflected in his coaching methods today.
"When you talk about Gautam Gambhir, the hunger to win is very evident, and he’s incredibly passionate about cricket," Zaheer noted. "These same qualities made him a good cricketer, and now as a coach, he views the game in the same way. His coaching mirrors the way he used to play. While you improve over time as a coach, your basic style remains similar to your playing days."
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Gambhir, who was known for his aggressive approach and dedication as a player, has transitioned into coaching with the same level of intensity, according to Zaheer, positioning him as a significant figure in Indian cricket’s future coaching landscape.
