Team India’s bowling attack led by pacer Mohammed Shami fabricated a top-notch show against New Zealand in the second ODI played at Raipur on Saturday.
After inviting New Zealand to bat first, the men in blue wrapped their innings in 34.3 overs as they could only manage to score a paltry 108 on the score board. India then comfortably chased down the target in just 20.1 overs, and won the game by eight wickets.
Regardless of the clinical performance, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal is of the opinion that the Indian bowling attack will “struggle” good tracks. The former Pakistan cricketer also suggested that India's attack can be more lethal if they find a way to “accommodate” Umran Malik in the playing XI. Akmal made the comment in a video posted on his YouTube channel.
“This Indian bowling unit might struggle in conditions that are good for batting, especially against top teams. It is very important for India to accommodate Umran Malik in the playing XI," said Akmal.
“He is getting better and better and can surely prove to be a matchwinner. The bowling lineup will look very strong when Jasprit Bumrah returns," he added.
Kamran Akmal also talked about the ongoing series between India and New Zealand, where Rohit Sharma led side. have already taken an unassailable 2-0 lead. Akmal feels that India should set their sight on a whitewash.
“India should look to whitewash New Zealand. The team is very high on confidence and the players look in a good rhythm. The good thing about this Indian side is that they have won matches while both chasing and defending. We have seen in the past that they prefer to chase. However, they want to tick all the boxes ahead of the World Cup," said Akmal.
The third and the final ODI between the two heavyweights will be played in Indore on Tuesday.
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