Following a drawn Test series against England, where a young Indian team demonstrated resilience, the focus has shifted to Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and workload management. Discussions amongst experts and fans highlight differing opinions, with some critics expressing strong views on the Indian bowler. Former England bowler Monty Panesar suggested that Mohammed Siraj’s ability to win matches for Team India necessitates a specific message for Bumrah.
Bumrah played only three matches in the five-Test series. It was pre-decided that Bumrah would play only three matches during the tour. Coincidentally, India didn’t win any of those matches, and he was absent from the two matches that led to the series draw. In both those matches, Siraj led the bowling attack impressively, taking five wickets each. This has raised questions about the reliability of Bumrah due to fitness and workload concerns. The debate also includes whether he should be given special considerations.
Given Bumrah’s importance and unique skills, opinions vary. Panesar, of Indian origin, shared his thoughts on the matter. In an interview, he was asked whether Team India should consider playing without Bumrah or only in overseas matches. The English spinner suggested Bumrah should play all matches abroad. Panesar said, “The Indian team can beat anyone at home without Bumrah, but he’s the X-factor in overseas Test matches. They (the captain and coach) can tell him that we don’t need you for home Tests, but we need you for overseas Tests.”
Whether captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir will take Panesar’s suggestion will become clear in the next two months. India will play its next two Test series at home, facing the West Indies and South Africa. Whether Bumrah will play these two series or take rest will indicate the team management’s plans. However, what Panesar suggested was previously seen during Virat Kohli’s captaincy when Bumrah made his Test debut and played all his initial Tests overseas, while he was rested in India.