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In the world of cricket commentary, few names evoke as much debate as Sanjay Manjrekar. Recently, he found himself at the centre of yet another controversy during the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. While discussing the evolution of pace bowlers, Manjrekar made a remark that quickly caught the ire of former Indian pacer Vinay Kumar. He described Kumar as a “120 kmph bowler,” suggesting that such bowlers thrived primarily on pitches with a bit of grass. This comment did not sit well with Kumar, prompting a sharp and witty response that has since gone viral.
Vinay Kumar strikes back with a sarcastic reply to Sanjay Manjrekar
Kumar, who has had a celebrated career in both domestic and international cricket, took to social media to address Manjrekar’s comments directly. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he sarcastically stated, “Sanjay bhai, with due respect, your speed gun requires urgent servicing. 120KMPH? Seriously?” This pointed remark highlights not only his pride in his achievements but also calls into question the accuracy of Manjrekar’s assessment of his bowling speed.
Kumar continued to assert his credentials, emphasizing that he is the first Indian pace bowler to take 100 wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He expressed satisfaction with his career, adding, “With God’s grace, I take pride in my achievements. I am contented, satisfied, and happy with my life. Medium pacer like Vinay Kumar has worked really hard to become the 1st Indian fast bowler to take 100 IPL wickets also played for the country in all the formats. I take pride in my bowling. Anyways best wishes and regards.” This response underscores the hard work and dedication Kumar has put into his craft, countering any insinuation that he relied solely on favourable pitch conditions.
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Sanjay bhai with due respect, your speed gun requires urgent servicing.
120KMPH 🥹 Seriously?
With God’s grace I take pride in my achievements, I am contented, satisfied and happy with my life.
Medium pacer like Vinay Kumar has worked really hard to become the 1st Indian fast…— Vinay Kumar R (@Vinay_Kumar_R) November 24, 2024
The context of the Manjrekar’s comment
Manjrekar’s comments came during a conversation about how domestic pitches have changed over the years. He noted that medium pacers like Kumar were successful when conditions favoured their style of bowling. However, many interpreted his remarks as dismissive rather than appreciative of the skill required to excel as a medium pacer. The cricketer’s response not only defended his legacy but also highlighted a broader issue within cricket commentary: the tendency to undervalue certain types of players based on outdated metrics.
What was this horrible statement from @sanjaymanjrekar what does he mean by medium pacers like Vinay Kumar started topping the wicket takers list. @nanuramu @HarishSItagi @karnataka_sport #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/c9tkpzF6DT
— Niran Poovanna (@niran_poovanna) November 23, 2024
This incident is not isolated; it reflects a growing trend where cricketers feel compelled to defend their legacies against critical commentary. Previously, players like Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja have also publicly challenged Manjrekar’s remarks. Such exchanges reveal an underlying tension between former players turned commentators and those still active in the sport.
