JOIN USFormer India bowling coach Venkatesh Prasad today said that Zaheer Khan's second spell is becoming a "struggle" for the left-arm speedster and also stated that none of the current India bowlers has required variation to bowl with new field restrictions in ODI cricket.
"Zaheer is a great bowler but I think his second spell is slowly becoming a struggle. Also his fielding is also a concern. You have to understand that he is 35 years old. He has made his debut some 14 years back in Nairobi in ICC Champions Trophy. There has been a lot of wear and tear on his body," Prasad said on the sidelines of a promotional event of Canara Bank to unveil Shikhar Dhawan as a Brand ambassador.
Asked if Zaheer should call time on his career, Prasad shot back, "He is a quality bowler with a seam position to die for but who are we to decide on his career?"
Prasad was categorical in stating that there isn't a bowler who had caught his imagination.
"If you ask about bowling with four fielders outside the circle, it is a very difficult job. You have to be spot on with your length and have variations. I don't want to name any bowler but no one has caught my imagination. In my time as bowler, we would bowl a lot of variation in the nets and take batsmen's feedback. These things don't happen now."
Prasad, who had worked as bowling coach of India for around two years is keen to get back into the mix.
"Obviously, it would be an honour to be the bowling coach. I am always ready to help out if my services are sought. I believe I have the credentials," Prasad, who was the bowling coach of the victorious World T20 winning squad. Prasad is hopeful that India will do well in World T20 with Dhoni, Yuvraj and Raina back in the team.
However he refused to be drawn into controversy whether Duncan Fletcher should be removed and Rahul Dravid be made the captain.
"Look Mr Gavaskar is a legend but I can't comment on his opinion. As far as Rahul is concerned, I was the bowling coach when he was captain. He is great cricket brain,'' he concluded.