The workload management of Jasprit Bumrah, India's pace spearhead, has become a major talking point ahead of the crucial five-match Test series against England, starting on June 20 in Leeds. Former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun has weighed in on the matter, suggesting a strategy to ensure Bumrah's availability for all five Tests.
Arun, who worked closely with Bumrah during his tenure with the Indian team, emphasized the importance of finding the right balance in Bumrah's workload. He acknowledged that Bumrah is unlikely to be available for the entirety of the series due to injury concerns, given his history with back problems. Bumrah's injury track record includes a thumb fracture in 2018, a lower-back stress fracture in 2019, an abdominal strain in 2021, and recurring back issues that led to surgery in early 2023. These setbacks have sidelined him at crucial moments, raising concerns about his longevity.
Arun's strategy revolves around adjusting Bumrah's training sessions based on the number of overs he bowls in matches. He explained that both "too much bowling and too little bowling cause injuries." While the number of overs Bumrah bowls in a match cannot be controlled, his practice sessions can be tailored to prioritize recovery. This could involve strength training in the gym or recovery work with the team's physios.
"So obviously we cannot control the number of overs that Jasprit Bumrah bowls in a match. But according to the number of overs bowled, the practice sessions can be trimmed down for him when he needs to be working on his recovery. It can be a strengthening session in the gym or some recovery work with physios. Handling him will be crucial," Arun told RevSportz.
Arun also highlighted the significance of support from the other bowlers in the squad. The current Test squad includes Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Arshdeep Singh as the main fast bowlers, along with seam-bowling all-rounders Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur. Bumrah's presence not only boosts the team's performance but also enhances the confidence of the other bowlers. If the other bowlers can share the workload effectively, Bumrah can be preserved and potentially play in all five Tests.
"Bumrah's presence in the team adds a huge value. Not only does he do well; he rallies the others. The confidence with which they ride in with Bumrah in the side would definitely add a lot of value to this team. So, ideally, I expect him to play all Test matches but if there is very good support from the other bowlers, only then can Bumrah be preserved and played in all five Tests. If he is taking the brunt of the workload, then I am afraid, he will not be ready for all matches," Arun added.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir echoed similar sentiments during a pre-departure press conference, stating that no decision had been made regarding which matches Bumrah would play. The decision will depend on discussions with Bumrah, the results of the series, and the overall direction of the series.
Jasprit Bumrah himself has acknowledged the need for workload management. He revealed that he had spoken to the BCCI and his surgeon about his workload, emphasizing the importance of being smart about his body. Bumrah has also expressed his willingness to contribute to the team in any way possible, even if it means not holding a leadership role.
Bumrah's recent form has been a subject of scrutiny. After returning from a back injury, he participated in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL), taking 18 wickets in 12 matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). While he showed glimpses of his brilliance, he is still working his way back to peak form.
As India prepares for the challenging Test series against England, managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload will be crucial. By carefully balancing his training sessions, ensuring support from other bowlers, and prioritizing his recovery, the team can maximize his availability and effectiveness throughout the series.
