Bhuvneshwar Kumar has thrown his weight behind Jasprit Bumrah after the Indian pacer came under criticism for his workload management. Bumrah featured in only 3 of the 5 Test matches in the recently concluded Anderson Trophy in England. Shubman Gill and won the 2 games in his absence with Mohammed Siraj standing tall.
No problem if Bumrah plays 3 out of 5 matches: Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Since Mohammed Siraj delivered India victory at The Oval, a little love has been lost for Jasprit Bumrah. His workload has been questioned with several former cricketers criticising his ‘pick and choose’ formula to playing the series. However, former teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar has rushed to his support. Kumar who toured England in 2014 and 2018, suggested that with Bumrah’s action, injuries can be frequent.
“Look, considering how many years Jasprit Bumrah has been playing and competing in all formats, it is tough for anyone to sustain that. And with the kind of bowling action Bumrah has, injuries can happen to him or to anyone. Bumrah is always bowling in tough situations, which brings both mental and physical pressure. If you want a player to have a long career, you have to manage them somehow,” Bhuvneshwar said in his appearance on the podcast Talk with Manvendra.
The former India fast bowler is active in IPL and recently starred in RCB’s maiden win in 2025. The veteran suggested that Bumrah is a match winner and any contribution from him should be considered okay. Even if it comes at the cost of him missing some games.
“I had no problem with him playing three out of five matches. If the selectors know what he can offer and are okay with it, it’s because they know he can still make a big impact in those three games. If a player might not play all five matches but will contribute significantly in three, that should be okay,” Bhuvi added.
Bumrah finished with 14 wickets in 3 games, picking up 2 5-wicket hauls. The 31-year-old did not win a game in England, but remains a cornerstone of India’s pace attack.
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