Jasprit Bumrah featured in only three Tests during the England tour, taking a total of 14 wickets. Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin spoke candidly about managing Bumrah’s workload, urging India’s cricket authorities to adopt a more pragmatic approach given the team’s rapidly dwindling resources. Azharuddin emphasized that Bumrah’s presence is vital and must be ensured for crucial matches.
India won both Tests that Jasprit Bumrah missed in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 against England. The fast bowler claimed 14 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls, but played only in three out of the five games—at Headingley, Lord’s, and Manchester.
In an interview with Mid-Day, Azharuddin said that any injury concerns should be addressed jointly by the player and the BCCI. He added that since Bumrah is representing the country, he must be able to manage his workload effectively.
“If there’s an injury, then the Board and the player have to make that call. But once you’re part of the team, you can’t be selective about matches. There’s workload, yes, but at this level, you have to handle it. You’re playing for your country,” Azharuddin remarked.
Azharuddin raised a question about the Indian team’s reliance on Jasprit Bumrah in crucial moments.
Thankfully for India, when Jasprit Bumrah was sidelined for two matches, Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Akash Deep stepped up impressively, guiding the team to victory. But Azharuddin wondered what would happen if India truly needed their star bowler in a critical situation.
“It was fortunate that Siraj, along with Prasidh and Akash Deep, performed so well in Bumrah’s absence and helped secure wins. But what if India desperately needs Jasprit Bumrah in a key moment? That’s a different scenario altogether,” Azharuddin said.
He also commented on Shubman Gill’s captaincy during his maiden series leading the team. Taking over from Rohit Sharma for the England tour, Gill led a relatively young squad through tough conditions.
Having captained India on challenging England tours in 1992 and 1996 himself, Azharuddin understands the pressures involved.
“Initially, there were doubts about the new captain, Gill, but ultimately this young side impressed everyone. The batsmen, especially Shubman, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja, performed excellently. Gill has begun his captaincy on a strong note,” he added.
India’s focus now shifts to their upcoming home Test series in October, where they will face the West Indies in two matches.
While Gill’s leadership inspires hope for the future, concerns over Jasprit Bumrah workload management remain a pressing issue as India strives to maintain its pace-bowling strength in crucial contests.
