Manav Suthar’s Unique Bowling Style
Manav Suthar is gaining recognition for his classical left-arm spin, a style that distinguishes him in contemporary cricket. Observers have noted the unique way the ball spins from his hand, indicating a special quality in his wrist action. This has led selectors to view him as a potential long-term asset, not only to prepare for a future without Ravindra Jadeja but also to secure a versatile finger spinner for all conditions.
Former India cricketer Maninder Singh, known for his own left-arm spin, has expressed admiration for Suthar’s technique. Singh highlights the beauty with which the ball is released from Suthar’s hand and his excellent seam position, noting that the seam consistently points towards the slips. He observed Suthar in a Test match against Afghanistan and some IPL games, finding him delightful to watch despite not always completing his full quota of overs.
Singh believes Suthar possesses a bright future and could represent India for an extended period, citing the rarity of such a classical left-arm spinner in recent times. He points to Suthar’s simple run-up and action, coupled with a beautiful release, as evidence of countless hours of practice. This dedication, Singh suggests, builds character that is evident in his match performances.
Impact and International Exposure
Suthar has reintroduced traditional spin elements like guile and deception, beating batters through the air. Fielders positioned close to the wicket have reportedly noticed the distinct sound the ball makes upon leaving his hand, which is attributed to the revolutions he imparts. This consistent, smooth delivery is a hallmark of his bowling.
His talent has also been noticed internationally. Suthar joined Warwickshire in England for a taste of County cricket, where he bowled with a different cricket ball. Head coach Ian Westwood was impressed with Suthar, noting his potential to succeed in competitive environments like India’s setup. Westwood praised Suthar’s ability to generate revolutions, making him effective in all conditions, and described him as a smart operator who was well-liked within the team, even after playing just two games.
Suthar’s adaptability was evident when he transitioned from his Test debut against Afghanistan to a County game for Warwickshire in Scarborough with only a three-day turnaround. The Test match in Mullanpur concluded on June 8, and he was on the field for Warwickshire by June 12. Westwood highlighted Suthar’s readiness and impact, noting his useful contributions with the bat lower down the order, which adds to his value as an asset for any team. Bowling in English conditions with a different ball is seen as beneficial for his overall development and future international assignments.
Preparations and Strategic Importance
Coaches at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) have commended Suthar’s work ethic. Under the guidance of a former cricketer, at the request of VVS Laxman, Suthar made technical adjustments, such as shortening his delivery stride, which prepared him for higher-level challenges. His commitment to preparation ensures he is always ready for opportunities.
Maninder Singh further elaborates on how Suthar’s revolutions create drift, allowing the ball to cut through the air. This drift is a significant advantage, enabling him to take wickets on various surfaces, even those not conducive to spin. Singh believes Suthar has the capability to pick up wickets both at home and overseas, potentially becoming India’s sole spinner in overseas Tests if needed.
Prior to his trip to Sri Lanka, Suthar visited the CoE to refine his spin bowling techniques. He received specific advice regarding the wind conditions in Galle, being told to use the breeze to his advantage and ensure the ball finishes on the stumps, adapting his drift according to the wind. This strategic approach aims to remove the pitch from the equation, making him a reliable bowler in any conditions.
Since his arrival in Colombo in early August, Suthar has made a strong impression during net sessions, warm-up matches, and sessions in Galle. His performance has led the team management to consider fielding three spinners, a rare occurrence, for the first Test against Sri Lanka, which is set to begin on Saturday.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, indicated on Thursday that the team might field three left-arm spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, and Ravindra Jadeja. This would mark the first time in nearly four years that India has included three specialist spinners in an away Test, with the last instance being against Bangladesh in Chittagong in December 2022, where Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav played.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
