February 7, 2024

‘I am not scary enough’ – Callum Vidler He Plans to Let his Bowling Skills Shine in the Upcoming Semi-Final – Cricket World Cup

Australian fast bowling prodigy Callum Vidler, who has been making waves at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, attributes his introduction to fast bowling to the iconic 2013-14 Ashes series. Inspired by the fearsome pace and skill of fellow Queenslanders Mitchell Johnson and Ryan Harris during the legendary Test matches, Vidler’s passion for fast bowling was ignited, setting him on a path to become one of the quickest teenagers in the country.

As the leading wicket-taker for Australia in the Under-19 World Cup, Vidler’s performances have caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. With impressive figures such as 4-29 against England U19, the 18-year-old has showcased his ability to combine raw pace with accuracy, finishing the tournament with 14 wickets at an average of 11.71. His inclusion in ESPNcricinfo’s Team of the Tournament has further recognized his talents, cementing his status as a rising star in cricket.

It’s fascinating how a single moment can shape a young athlete’s destiny. For Callum Vidler, the spark ignited his passion for fast bowling a decade ago when he witnessed Mitchell Johnson’s awe-inspiring performance during the legendary Ashes series between cricket’s fiercest rivals, Australia and England. Watching Johnson’s ferocious pace and skillful execution left an indelible mark on the impressionable Vidler, and from that moment on, he knew he wanted to follow in his idol’s.

During the pivotal Perth Test, when Ryan Harris claimed the prized wicket of Alastair Cook off the very first ball of the innings, the young Vidler’s determination to become a fast bowler was cemented. His fellow Queenslander’s raw power and precision inspired him to take up the mantle and relentlessly pursue his dream of dominating the cricket pitch.

Fast forward to the present day. Callum Vidler is doing precisely what he set out to do all those years ago – turning heads and carving out a name for himself on the global stage. At the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, the teenage sensation has been a force to be reckoned with, displaying impressive pace, accuracy, and an undeniable presence on the field. 

As Australia’s leading wicket-taker in the tournament, Vidler has showcased his ability to dismantle opposing teams with his devastating bowling prowess.

His standout performances have not gone unnoticed, earning him a well-deserved spot in ESPNcricinfo’s Team of the Tournament. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, there is no doubt that Callum Vidler has the potential to become a key figure in the future of Australian cricket. With his unwavering dedication and natural talent, this young fast bowler is set to leave an indelible mark on the sport, much like his childhood heroes, Mitchell Johnson and Ryan Harris, did before him.

“It’s hard not to be inspired to become a fast bowler watching that as a young kid,” Vidler tells ICC Digital.

“I thought to myself, ‘I want to do that’, you know? Bowl fast. Just run in and bowl fast. Watching them was my initial inspiration to take up cricket and fast bowling.

“If anyone ever tells me to slow down, I am not listening to them,” he says.

“Pace is my point of difference, my best attribute. I have also been learning to use it wisely, not having just pace, to swing the ball, using my variations and all. But if someone told me to slow down, it’s never working. The whole point is to bowl fast.”

Unlike the fiery Mitchell Johnson, whose aggressive and explosive pace would send shivers down the spines of opposing batters, Callum Vidler possesses a more measured and calculated approach to his bowling. While Johnson’s raw speed and ferocity were his trademark weapons, Vidler focuses on precision, hitting the right areas, and attacking the stumps to extract errors from the batters. Vidler’s strategic method was fully displayed during the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, particularly in his standout performance against England.

In that match, Vidler’s exceptional spell demonstrated skill and maturity that drew comparisons to another Australian great, current Test captain Pat Cummins. Like Cummins, Vidler’s bowling exhibits a unique blend of pace, accuracy, and tactical prowess, allowing him to dismantle opposing batting lineups with a clinical efficiency reminiscent of his idol.

Cummins, widely respected for his impeccable skills and relentless work ethic, is an ideal role model for the young Vidler. Vidler’s aspirations to emulate Cummins’ success seem increasingly within reach as he continues to hone his craft and gain valuable experience on the international stage. With the guidance of such an influential mentor, there is little doubt that Callum Vidler has the potential to carve out a successful career and become an indispensable member of the Australian cricket team for years to come.

“In my younger teenage years, watching Pat Cummins, with his skill and pace, just being a class above everyone else, it’s inspired me and I definitely look up to him,” Vidler says, adding that hopefully this team can emulate Australia’s record of doing great in ICC tournaments.

The Australian U19 team’s camaraderie and unity will be tested on Thursday as they face a challenging semi-final match against Pakistan. The Pakistani team has showcased resilience and determination throughout the tournament, overcoming difficult matches and relying on key individuals who have consistently stepped up under pressure.

Australia’s strength lies in the strong bond forged among the team members, developed through challenging tours and experiences on and off the field. Callum Vidler acknowledges that the team’s cohesiveness has been vital to their success: “Pretty much all of our squad members have known each other before. The tour of England, playing ODIs and red-ball games against another U19 side, helped a lot,”

In contrast, Pakistan will lean on the individual brilliance of players like Ubaid Shah, who has been instrumental in carrying the team’s bowling attack with 18 wickets in six matches. As the brother of international star Naseem Shah, Ubaid has showcased similar talent and potential that could pose a significant threat to Australia’s batting lineup.

With both teams boasting impressive performances and unique strengths, the semi-final clash between Australia and Pakistan promises to be thrilling. While Australia will rely on its unity and collective strength, Pakistan will bank on its key players to make a difference and secure a spot in the final.

Vidler believes in-form pacer Ubaid Shah, in particular, will be a big threat. “Pakistan have an awesome pace attack,” Vidler says. “Ubaid, Naseem Shah’s brother, has been taking many wickets and stepping up in the big games.

Does he want to send an early warning to the Pakistan batters? “We are very confident of winning the semis, but I am not going to send out any message to the Pakistan batters though,” Vidler laughs.

“I don’t think I have any intimidation in me. I am not tall enough or scary enough. I just want to focus on my cricket.”

Callum Vidler has been an exceptional bowler in the ongoing ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. He has the best bowling average, 7.81, which means he gives away less than 8 runs for every wicket he takes. Vidler has taken 11 wickets so far, and he does this while keeping the opposing team from scoring too many runs. His economy rate is 3.55, which shows how well he can control the game.

With these fantastic numbers, Vidler needs to focus on his own performance. By doing his best in every match, he will continue to grow as a player and help Australia’s team do well in the tournament. Vidler can become an even better player with his skills and determination, which are essential to Australia’s success.

Give your favorite player a boost! Visit our site to show how much you believe in them.

Top Cricket News | Cricket World Cup | Cricket World Cup News | Bangladesh Premier League | Big Bash League | India Priemier League | Pakistan Super League | T20 Blast