Former India pacer Vinay Kumar has hit back at former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar for labelling him a “120 kmph bowler” during Day 3 of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test between India and Australia in Perth. Manjrekar’s remark came during a commentary discussion with Mark Nicholas and Russel Arnold, where he suggested that domestic pitches in India, with their grassy surfaces, favored medium pacers like Vinay Kumar, allowing them to dominate the wicket-taking charts.
“But I think that’s gone,” Manjrekar said, referencing changes in domestic conditions. “Medium pacers like the Vinay Kumars, with no disrespect to him, were topping the wicket-taking charts because all they needed to do with grass on the pitch was put the ball at 120 kmph in the right area, and they got wickets.”
Manjrekar’s comment did not sit well with Vinay Kumar, who took to social media to defend his legacy and achievements. “Sanjay bhai, with due respect, your speed gun requires urgent servicing,” Kumar posted on X (formerly Twitter). “120KMPH. Seriously? With God’s grace, I take pride in my achievements. I am contented, satisfied, and happy with my life.”
He further highlighted his milestones, including becoming the first Indian fast bowler to claim 100 IPL wickets, a testament to his consistency and hard work. Kumar added, “Medium pacer like Vinay Kumar has worked really hard to become the 1st Indian fast bowler to take 100 IPL wickets and has also played for the country in all formats. I take pride in my bowling. Anyways, best wishes and regards.”
Vinay Kumar, who represented India in all three formats, amassed 1, 38, and 10 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, respectively. In domestic cricket, his record is even more impressive, with 504 wickets in first-class matches, 225 in List-A cricket, and 194 in T20s.
This isn’t the first time Sanjay Manjrekar has faced backlash for his commentary. Earlier, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami also called out Manjrekar for predicting a decline in his IPL price due to past injuries.
Responding to that criticism, Shami had posted on Instagram, “Baba ki jai hoooooo. Thoda sa gyan apne future ke liye bhi bacha lo kaam aayega Sanjay G. Kisi ko future jaana ho to sir se mile.” Shami, who later fetched a ?10 crore bid from Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL auction, has proven his mettle by returning to peak form.
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