Australia’s cricket captain, Pat Cummins, has emphasized the crucial role played by spinner Adam Zampa in the national side’s bowling setup, which is predominantly dominated by fast bowlers. With a pace attack consisting of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins himself, and Cameron Green, Australia boast a formidable lineup of quick bowlers.
However, the inclusion of Adam Zampa adds a new dimension to Australia’s bowling strategy. Zampa’s expertise comes into play during the middle overs, where he excels at slowing down the run rate and picking up vital wickets during the death overs.
Zampa’s proficiency in the death overs was evident in Australia’s recently concluded five-match series against South Africa, although the Proteas clinched the series 3-2. During the series, Zampa displayed impressive figures, conceding runs at an average of 5.56, which places him among the best in the world in this crucial phase of the game. He became only the second player to have bowled over 200 deliveries at the death with an economy rate of less than six, a testament to his effectiveness.
Cummins highlighted the value Zampa brings to the team, especially when using four frontline bowlers. He emphasized that Zampa’s ability to control the run rate while also taking wickets during the death overs is crucial. This adds an essential dimension to Australia’s bowling attack, given that it can be more challenging for pace bowlers to achieve the same results in these situations.
Cummins stated, “Particularly if you pick four frontline bowlers, you’ve got to be ready to bowl in all phases. ‘Zamps,’ he’s effective at not only keeping the run rate down but he can take a couple of wickets at the death, which is really important as well, and sometimes it’s a bit harder for pace bowlers to do that. I wouldn’t be surprised if we keep two, three, or four overs up our sleeve with him.”
Cricket fans can expect to see Zampa in action for the Australian team in the upcoming three-match ODI series against India. This series serves as a crucial preparation for Australia as they gear up for the highly anticipated ODI World Cup, scheduled to commence on October 5. Australia’s campaign in the World Cup will kick off against India on October 8 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
