Former Indian cricketer feels that Ishant Sharma has under-performed for India

Ishant Sharma, during his early playing days, emerged as a fiery young bowler who can ruffle the feathers of the best batsmen in the world. His spell against Ricky Ponting at the WACA in 2007 created an indelible impact on the psyche of the fans. However, he hasn’t quite lived up to expectations and has struggled to claim a permanent spot in the team

Marred by injuries and inconsistent performances, his career stumbled at regular intervals. Recently, the Delhi-pacer was left out of India’s playing XI for the opening Test at the Newlands in Cape Town. Raju Kulkarni, the former Indian pacer, also highlighted the reasons behind Ishant’s lacklustre performances for the Men in Blue.

“He (Ishant Sharma) has played 78 (79) Test matches, to play 78 (79) Test matches for India is amazing. But I don’t think he has ever led from the front and that has been a problem with him. He is too erratic, every-time he comes with new techniques, strategies, and that itself is very confusing for him,” Kulkarni remarked.

The former Mumbai fast-bowler also emphasized Ishant’s efforts and approach towards the game. “In the last two series, he (Sharma) was acting very stupidly, reacting to the situations badly, and I think every time he comes out with something different and that is not making him very consistent,” the 55-year-old mentioned.

A tough task ahead for Ishant

India were comprehensively beaten by South Africa in the first Test. However, the pace trio of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami punched above their weight and made the Proteas batsmen huff and puff. Even the debutant Bumrah impressed by extracting prodigious pace and bounce from the wickets.

In the second Test match, the team management decided to pick Ishant ahead of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and thus far he has picked up just one wicket that of AB de Villiers.

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