India’s pace ace Jasprit Bumrah has shared insights into his workload management strategy ahead of the upcoming Test series against England. The right-arm fast bowler confirmed his participation in the series opener but indicated he is likely to play only two more matches in the five-Test series to avoid the risk of injury.
Bumrah’s body endured significant strain during the Australia tour, particularly after the fourth Test in Melbourne, where he bowled over 50 overs across both innings. A back issue during the fifth Test in Sydney prevented him from bowling in the fourth innings, ultimately sidelining him for the following months.
In a conversation with Dinesh Karthik on Sky Sports, Bumrah explained (as quoted by India Today):
“I’m definitely looking at playing three Test matches. That’s the plan for now. Obviously, the exact number is not fixed yet, but the first one is certainly on. We’ll have to see how things go — the workload, the match scenarios, all of that.”
“But yes, at this moment, three Tests is what I feel I can manage comfortably without putting myself in a desperate situation. Also, there’s another side to it. As a captain, I can’t just dictate terms saying, ‘I’ll only play three games.’ That doesn’t send the right message to the team.”
“Told BCCI I Don’t Want Leadership Role” – Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah was among the frontrunners to succeed Rohit Sharma as India’s full-time Test captain. However, the right-arm pacer disclosed that he had informed the BCCI of his reluctance to take up the role, citing his unavailability for all matches. Speaking to The Hindustan Times, he said:
“Before Rohit and Virat retired during the IPL, I had spoken to the BCCI about my workloads going forward in a five-test match series. I’ve spoken to the people who have managed my back. I’ve spoken to the surgeon as well, who’s always spoken to me about how smart you have to be about the workloads.”
“So I did speak to him, and then we came to the conclusion that I have to be a little smarter. So then I called the BCCI and said I don’t want to be looked at in a leadership role because I won’t be able to give all the Test matches in a five-test match series.”
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