McGrath used to bowl at 140 plus when he started, over the years his pace declined. But still he could comfortably bowl over 135. His height, delivery point, accuracy were his key strengths. Very hard to replicate. India has tried with several guys-identical action. But so far none of them had any success.
Anyway you dont need pace and brute strength to be a successful bowler. Chaminda Vaas, Kulasekara, Praveen Kumar, Aaqib Javed, Streak are all good examples. Height and pace are obviously an advantage. But a bowler can do without if they have accuracy, skill and intelligence. These are things that need to be taught to our guys and will come with experience and practice. McGrath used to put a coin on the pitch and practice day and night.
Most of our pacers are poor in all these areas. Most dont have height or pace. Only Mashrafee and Nazmul are somewhat accurate. Most have limited skills (How many can genuinely swing or seam the ball in and out consistently?), and hardly any of them use intelligence. Rasel for instance can make up for the lack of pace with accurate wicket to wicket bowling and a bit of swing. But he sprays the ball over the place and gets whacked around. Lot of work for our bowling coaches to do. And these things need long term training, not just 3 weeks before a tour.
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