Bolwers welcome Kumble’s 12-over per bowler proposal in 50-over game

Former India captain Anil Kumble stated that his suggestion of one bowler getting to bowl 12 overs in a 50-over game will only make it a "better contest" between bat and bowl. "Yes, I suggested to the technical committee was that one bowler should be allowed to bowl 12 overs in a 50-over game. I'm glad it was accepted in today's meeting. I believe that 12 overs for one bowler in the One-dayers will not only provide a better contest between bat and ball but will also bring in more room for strategising for the captains," India's highest wicket-taker in Test cricket told bcci.tv after Wednesday meeting, says a report in Indian EXpress.

"It will affect in a way they plan, analyse and will make an impact on the batting team, be it chasing targets or setting them up," Kumble added.

Meanwhile the bowlers' fraternity, in general, is delighted with Anil Kumble's proposal to allow one bowler a maximum of 12 overs in a one-day match. Former India fast bowler Ajit Agarkar opined it was an “interesting” move, says a report in The Hindu. “It will make the contest challenging. The game was so loaded in favour of batsmen, but this will allow the captain an option. These two overs can make a difference because it will allow you to make up for a bowler who may be having an off day. There is something for the bowlers and it will be nice if Kumble's proposal is accepted.”

For L. Balaji, the move was most welcome. “It will be a big boost for a bowler. A captain need not worry over preserving his strike bowler. It gives the captain extra room and encourages the bowler to go for wickets. Two bouncers per over is also an incentive, but this move will mean we will have less defensive bowlers. The game will become more competitive, and being a captain-bowler, I feel happy about Kumble's proposal. A bowler can be more attacking now and go for wickets,” said the former India speedster, according to Hindu report.

Venkatesh Prasad, former India seamer and bowling coach, was cautious. “I am not sure if the ICC (International Cricket Council) would approve the move, because the proposal gives advantage to the bowlers. One particular bowler, having a great day, will stand to make the most, which will mean teams would be strictly picked according to the pitches. If the track encourages seamers, spinners would be dumped because the best seamer would get to bowl 12 overs. We have a new ball at each end now and there is one Power Play less. One-day cricket is for batsmen and the bowlers need to accept that and work on their skills.”