Aaqib Javed underlines need for Bangladeshi bowling role models

Although it is only a short stint with the Bangladesh side, former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed ha conceded that Bangladesh youngsters need a Bangladeshi role model. Javed added that it is something to watch the likes of Glenn McGrath and others bowl and quite something else to watch the likes of Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman to bowl in excess of 90 mph.

“I think it is a lack of role models,” Aaqib said when quizzed about the lack of genuine fast bowling greats in the country till now. “For Bangladeshis, whatever picture or video you show them of a fast bowler, it won’t inspire the youngsters unless you show them a Bangladeshi bowling at 145kph. But it has started to happen recently. Three of your guys have been showing youngsters that they can bowl fast. That confidence is there. And this is the beginning.”

Aaqib Javed, who himself is a role model for many aspiring Pakistani bowlers stated that he was inspired by former Pakistan skipper Imran Khan to begin bowling. “[Back in Pakistan] we used to have only a few fast bowlers but after Imran (Khan) came up as a role model, we never looked back. After Rubel [Hossain], Taskin [Ahmed] and Mustafizur [Rahman], you will have many fast bowlers in the next few years. Your own role models,” he added.

“I always believe in the process, which means you can make a difference. In a week, you can transfer some knowledge but you can’t actually move them into progression. Sometimes it is difficult to accept something that is not suitable, but I can transfer knowledge, give them a plan and, after three months, I can come and see what levels they have reached,” he said.

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“Discussing with the local coaches also, my belief is that some key points should be told to the players while the details should remain with the coaches to discuss. I will try my best to transfer these to the boys. It would not make a difference if I am not around after 6-7 days, but they should know where they are headed.”

“I don’t believe in changing bowlers’ actions but I believe in adding something that helps them to bowl fast. Today we focused on speed. You should utilise your capacity. We focused on 1-2 km/h with their running speed, which is momentum, and 1-2 km/h from their front-foot force absorption and balance. And the third point is both your bowling arm and your non-bowling arm [must follow the principles of] pull-and-push theory, which can increase your speed by a further 1-2 km/h. The target is a 5-6 km/h pace increase,” he said.

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“Shoaib Akhtar had pace. Seam and accuracy like Glenn McGrath. And something like Mustafizur Rahman. Something unusual. You must create something that is sellable, which is your trade. I think six days is a long time to understand and make someone understand,” he added.