The calibre of Jasprit Bumrah needs no introduction. But as the cricketing world gears up for more high-stakes battles, a debate is emerging: should India’s pacer be gently rotated rather than pushed toward early retirement?
Aakash Chopra’s Strong Defense of Bumrah
Former India opener Aakash Chopra firmly believes that while Bumrah “won’t play too many Tests,” forcing an early exit would be a disservice. In his recent YouTube appearance, he passionately stated:
“There is no bowler like Bumrah… He is the Kohinoor diamond. The longer he plays, the better it is.”
Chopra acknowledged that Bumrah himself seems to prefer picking his spots, saying “he is going to pick and choose.” Yet he urges selectors and media alike to adjust the team strategy around such a rare talent, rather than expecting rigid continuity.
He added a telling point: rotating a bowler is far easier than managing inconsistencies in batting. “If Bumrah had been a batter… it would’ve been a problem,” he noted.
Workload Over Controversy
This debate gained traction after Bumrah featured in only three out of five Tests in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England—a decision made before the tour began and supported by India’s team management.
His absence in matches—like the second and the series-decider—was not due to performance, but careful workload and fitness management. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed Bumrah himself opted for the restriction, a move that was respected by the team.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir echoed this stance, confirming the strategy was pre-planned: “For us, managing Bumrah’s workload is more important… it was already decided that he’s going to play three Tests.”
Though his rest clause baffled many—especially after his 5-wicket haul in the opening Test—it’s clear the management prioritized long-term performance over short-term optics.
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate and head coach Gautam Gambhir both confirmed that the plan was well thought out. Gambhir even said, “For us, managing Bumrah’s workload is more important than playing him in every match. It was already decided that he’s going to play three Tests.”
The discussion picked up steam after former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar made comments suggesting Bumrah should adjust more to the team’s needs.
This did not sit well with fans and experts, many of whom felt Manjrekar was being unfair. Critics argued that no other Indian bowler in recent history has been as impactful as Bumrah, and his workload should be treated differently.
Social media quickly sided with Bumrah, with many slamming Manjrekar’s remarks as “short-sighted” and “harsh.”
Interestingly, even former India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar stepped into the debate, pointing out that people often underestimate the physical toll Test cricket takes on fast bowlers.
Bhuvneshwar, who has himself struggled with injuries throughout his career, reminded fans that protecting Bumrah ensures longevity.
He stated that while fans love to see Bumrah bowl every Test, “managing workload is not a luxury but a necessity.”
There are three big reasons why India’s approach towards Bumrah is justified:
- Quality Over Quantity – Every time Bumrah plays, he makes an impact. His 5-wicket haul in the first Test against England proved why India values him so highly. Even in limited appearances, he often changes the course of a match.
- Longevity in Cricket – Bumrah is not just vital for Tests; he is equally important in ODIs and T20Is, especially with big tournaments like the Champions Trophy 2025 and T20 World Cup 2026 coming up. Managing him smartly ensures he remains India’s spearhead for years.
- Team Flexibility – Unlike batting, bowling departments can rotate more easily. India has strong backup options like Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, and Arshdeep Singh who can step in when Bumrah rests.
For cricket lovers, it may feel frustrating to not see Bumrah in every Test. However, the bigger picture is about keeping him fit for crucial series and ICC tournaments. Chopra summed it up well by saying:
“Don’t push him towards retirement. Instead, build a strategy around him. India needs him in full fitness, not half-fit in every game.”
Jasprit Bumrah is not just another fast bowler; he is India’s biggest match-winner in the last decade. Expecting him to play every single Test could shorten his career drastically. Instead, India’s approach of careful workload management ensures that Bumrah remains the strike weapon in crucial moments.
As fans, the message is clear — enjoy Bumrah whenever he takes the field because every spell he bowls is a priceless gem. After all, diamonds are rare, and so are bowlers like him.
