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Praveen Kumar and ball tempering (Source: Twitter)
Reverse swing, historically employed by fast bowlers as one of the most lethal weapons to trouble batters in the latter stages of a cricket match, was introduced by Pakistani fast bowlers. They pioneered this unique technique, finding ways to take wickets on seemingly lifeless pitches. However, mastering this art is not an easy task, as it demands a special skill that isn't acquired by every bowler.
Over time, the art of reverse swing has faded into obscurity, particularly with the usage of two new balls in ODIs. Former India fast bowler Praveen Kumar recently shed light on the rumours of reverse swing and made a surprising disclosure that all teams engaged in ball tampering to achieve it. However, he added that Pakistan players tended to employ this tactic more frequently than others.
"Everyone does a little bit; they (Pakistan bowlers) do it a bit more. That's what I've heard. Now, there are cameras everywhere. Earlier, all used to do it. And everyone knows as well. They would scratch it from one side, but one must know how to use that skill, too. If I scratch the ball and give to someone, one must have the skills to reverse-swing it. One has to learn that," the former Indian speedster said on Lallantop.
Watch the video here:
Praveen Kumar splitting facts. pic.twitter.com/dA56zWEZ2B
— Pawan Shukla (@Shukla8175) January 7, 2024
Praveen Kumar was sensational in his small International career
The right-arm seamer, Praveen Kumar marked his international debut in an ODI against Pakistan in November 2007. He subsequently played six Tests, 68 ODIs, and ten T20Is for India. The 37-year-old gained prominence during the 2008 Commonwealth Bank Tri-series against Australia and Sri Lanka, where he took ten wickets in just four matches, contributing to India's historic victory in Australia.
Additionally, the former Indian fast bowler has claimed 27 wickets in six Tests, achieving his best-ever figures of 5/106 against England at the iconic Lord’s. The 37-year-old pacer has also played 68 ODIs where he has taken 77 wickets. Moreover, in the 119 IPL matches the right-arm seamer has picked up 90 wickets.