In our latest exclusive interview, Ian Pont, renowned international fast-bowling coach and former Essex pacer, shares his candid and insightful thoughts on the current state of fast-bowling in Pakistan and across the world. With years of coaching experience globally, Ian provides a deep dive into the technical and mental aspects of pace bowling, highlighting challenges and solutions for the future.      

By Saj Sadiq (January 20, 2025)

Key topics include:

• Why Pakistan cricket should dominate with their pace bowlers: Pakistan has a rich legacy of producing exceptional fast bowlers like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar. Their ability to generate pace and swing has traditionally been a strength, but recent performances have not lived up to this legacy.
  
  
• Jasprit Bumrah’s unique action and what makes him so effective: Bumrah's unconventional bowling action, combined with his ability to deliver yorkers and unplayable deliveries, makes him highly effective. His style has inspired many young bowlers worldwide, including in Pakistan
  
  
• The challenges Pakistani pacers face with fitness and consistency: Pakistani fast bowlers often struggle with maintaining fitness levels and consistency in performance. This has led to a decline in their overall impact on the game
  
  
• How T20 leagues are impacting the development of young fast bowlers: T20 leagues can both help and hinder the development of young fast bowlers. While they provide exposure and experience, they also lead to overuse and a focus on short-form skills rather than long-term development
  
  
• The importance of mental resilience and desire in fast bowling: Mental toughness is crucial for fast bowlers to perform under pressure. Pakistani bowlers need to develop this resilience to compete at the highest level
  
  
• Why genuine pace bowling is on the decline worldwide: The decline in genuine pace bowling worldwide is partly due to factors like overuse, lack of depth in talent pools, and changing cricket conditions
  
  
• Structural issues in Pakistan cricket that affect player longevity: Structural issues such as inconsistent team selection and lack of support systems contribute to the short careers of Pakistani fast bowlers
  
  
• Strategies to produce and sustain top-quality pacers: To sustain top-quality pacers, Pakistan needs to focus on developing a strong domestic structure, ensuring consistent selection policies, and providing adequate support for player fitness and mental well-being.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3cE9TsEN3Q