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Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke has shared his thoughts on who he believes holds the title of the best fast bowler across all three formats of the game. In a recent chat, Clarke gave his take on what makes a fast bowler stand out, particularly when playing across different formats like Test cricket, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20Is.
Michael Clarke picks the best fast bowler across formats
Clarke, after reflecting on a series of fast bowling performances, named India’s Jasprit Bumrah as the best fast bowler he has seen across all formats. Clarke praised Bumrah’s ability to perform consistently well in all conditions, something that, in his opinion, sets him apart from other great fast bowlers.
The former Australian captain went on to explain that Bumrah’s remarkable versatility in various conditions and formats, coupled with his match-winning abilities, has made him stand out. Clarke emphasized that Bumrah’s prowess across the different formats – whether it’s his lethal yorkers in T20s or his ability to bowl long spells in Tests – is what makes him a freak of nature.
“The thing I’ve thought about Bumrah, after the series finished and I was sitting and thinking about his performances, I actually think he’s the best fast bowler ever across all three formats,” Clarke told ESPN’s Around The Wicket.
Also READ: Most wickets by an Indian seamer in a Test series feat. Jasprit Bumrah
Clarke reflects on greats of past eras
Clarke acknowledged the tremendous impact of legendary fast bowlers from past eras, mentioning the likes of Curtly Ambrose and Glenn McGrath. However, he pointed out that these legends did not have the chance to play T20 cricket, which is a vital part of the game today. While their contributions were immense, Clarke believes that Bumrah’s ability to excel across all three formats makes him stand out.
“I know a lot of great fast bowlers, Curtly Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, didn’t get to play T20 cricket, so I’m not talking about those guys, but in regards to anyone who has played all three formats, I think he might be the best ever. He’s actually that good in any conditions, that’s what makes him great; any conditions, any format, this guy’s a freak,” added Clarke.
