As India embarks on its summer tour of England, all eyes are set on Jasprit Bumrah, the team's pace spearhead. With the Test series against England commencing at Headingley on June 20, Bumrah's fitness and workload management have become central talking points. Amidst discussions about balancing his workload, former England captain David Gower has voiced a compelling opinion: India should play Bumrah even if he is not at 100 percent fitness.
Gower's comments come at a time when the Indian team management, led by coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill, are carefully planning Bumrah's participation in the five-match series. Given Bumrah's history with back injuries, including a stress-related lower back injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series earlier this year, a cautious approach seems prudent.
Bumrah himself has acknowledged the need for smart workload management, especially considering the demanding nature of a five-Test series. He has communicated with the BCCI and medical experts, expressing his intention to play three of the five Tests. This decision also influenced his choice to decline the Test captaincy, as he felt it would be unfair to the team if he couldn't participate in all the matches.
However, Gower argues that Bumrah's impact is so significant that even a slightly diminished Bumrah is a potent weapon. Speaking to The Times of India, Gower stated, "Jasprit Bumrah is a fantastic bowler—world-class. His fitness is crucial. If I were England, I'd prefer he doesn't play at all! If India need to manage his workload, they must be strategic—look at pitch conditions, the opposition, and figure out where he can make the most impact. English pitches are usually decent—not overly bowler-friendly—so someone of Bumrah's quality can be the difference. If he's even 75–80% fit, I'd still want him in the XI."
Gower's perspective highlights the psychological advantage Bumrah brings to the Indian team. His ability to generate swing and bowl precise yorkers creates pressure and instills fear in opposing batsmen. Even if not at peak fitness, his presence can disrupt England's aggressive 'Bazball' approach.
Recent updates suggest that Bumrah is in good shape, with India's bowling coach Morne Morkel expressing excitement about Bumrah's rhythm and intensity during training sessions in England. Morkel emphasized that the team would be smart in handling Bumrah's workload, but was impressed by his energy and the way he was bowling with the Dukes ball.
Bumrah's statistics in England are impressive, further supporting Gower's argument. In nine matches, he has taken 37 wickets at an average of 26.27, with two five-wicket hauls. His ability to perform in English conditions makes him a crucial asset for India.
Ultimately, the decision of how much to utilize Bumrah will rest on the Indian team management. They will need to assess his fitness levels, the match conditions, and the overall dynamics of the series. Bumrah's own input will also be vital, as he understands his body best and can communicate any discomfort or fatigue.
India's long summer in England promises to be an exciting one, and Bumrah's role will be pivotal in determining the team's success. Whether he plays all five Tests or follows a more cautious plan, his presence on the field will undoubtedly make a significant impact.
