Former England bowler Stuart Broad has issued a warning to Ben Stokes and his team regarding Jasprit Bumrah's potential impact on the upcoming five-Test series between England and India. Broad has lauded Bumrah as the best bowler globally and highlighted the significant threat he poses. The series is set to begin on June 20 in Leeds.
Broad, in his new podcast with Jos Buttler, "For the Love of Cricket," stated, "There's no doubt in my mind he's the best bowler in the world at the moment. He showed that in Australia. He's going to be pretty dangerous in these conditions." He referenced Bumrah's competitive nature, recalling an incident with Sam Konstas in Australia, and analyzed his unique bowling action, explaining why he is such a challenging bowler to face.
However, concerns linger about Bumrah's workload management, especially considering his history of back injuries. He had been sidelined for months due to a stress fracture and experienced another flare-up earlier this year. These concerns have led to discussions about whether Bumrah will be able to participate in all five Test matches.
India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has indicated that Bumrah would likely play only three Tests, though the specific matches have yet to be decided. "We haven't taken that call. Which three games is he going to play?" Gambhir said. "We are going to have a discussion with him, and depending on the series as well. A lot will depend on the results of the series, where the series is heading. That is something which I am sure he is very well aware of as well, and that is important."
Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun suggested that Bumrah could play all five Tests if the other bowlers provide adequate support. He noted that Bumrah had to shoulder a heavy workload in Australia, which shouldn't be the case in England. "Too much bowling and too little bowling, both cause injuries," Arun explained. "They are the perfect recipe for a bowler to get injured." He emphasized the importance of the other bowlers stepping up to support Bumrah, stating, "If he is taking the brunt of the workload, then I am afraid, he will not be ready for all matches. How the others bowlers support him becomes very vital for Bumrah playing all Test matches."
Considering the schedule, with minimum rest days between each Test, it seems unlikely that Bumrah can play both the fourth and fifth Tests due to the short turnaround. If Bumrah is to play only three games, the most logical choices might be the first, third, and fourth Tests. However, if the team management decides to push for a fourth Test with Bumrah, they might consider having him play the first three and then the fifth, allowing for more recovery time.
The composition of India's bowling attack in Bumrah's absence remains a key question. Mohammed Shami's fitness is also a concern, as he is reportedly not ready for long spells in red-ball cricket. Arshdeep Singh could potentially receive his maiden Test call-up.
Ultimately, the extent of Jasprit Bumrah's participation in the series will significantly impact India's chances of securing their first Test series win in England since 2007. England will undoubtedly be hoping that Bumrah's workload is carefully managed, limiting his appearances and reducing the threat he poses to their batting lineup.
