Sanjay Manjrekar's recent comments on Jasprit Bumrah have sparked considerable discussion among cricket enthusiasts and experts alike. Manjrekar emphasized that even if Bumrah's bowling speed is around 130 kph, he remains India's best seam bowler. This statement underscores the significance of Bumrah's overall skill set, which extends beyond sheer pace.
Manjrekar's assessment comes amidst scrutiny of Bumrah's workload management and fitness. There have been debates regarding whether Bumrah, at this stage of his career, should be handled with extreme caution, similar to a player who has already participated in 100 Test matches. This perspective acknowledges Bumrah's genius as a bowler but also recognizes the need to preserve his fitness for the long run.
Bumrah's recent performances have been a mixed bag. He started the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series impressively, securing a five-wicket haul in the first innings at Headingley. However, his effectiveness waned as the series progressed. In Manchester, he achieved minimal success, claiming only one wicket in 28 overs. This inconsistency has fueled concerns about his form and fitness.
Despite any fluctuations in pace or wicket-taking ability, Manjrekar's assertion highlights the critical aspects of Bumrah's bowling. His accuracy, unique action, and ability to deliver under pressure make him a formidable force. Even when not at his peak speed, Bumrah's variations, strategic thinking, and experience enable him to outsmart batsmen and contribute significantly to the team.
Manjrekar has also lauded Bumrah's adaptability and impact in various formats of the game. In a recent IPL 2025 match, Bumrah faced a rare setback, conceding 20 runs in a single over, his worst figures of the season. However, his overall economy rate in the tournament remains impressive, demonstrating his ability to bounce back from difficult situations.
Looking back at the third Test against England at Lord's, Manjrekar praised Bumrah's performance in both innings. He highlighted Bumrah's patience, strategic acumen, and ability to seize opportunities, emphasizing that "showing his greatness in different ways has become a part of the bowler's legacy". Furthermore, Manjrekar acknowledged Bumrah's crucial role in the ninth-wicket partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Bumrah's own reflections on his bowling technique shed light on his unique approach. He revealed that he relies more on his middle finger than his index finger to generate swing, and he adjusts his position on the crease to vary his deliveries. This adaptability and understanding of his strengths contribute to his effectiveness as a bowler.
Despite the discussions surrounding his workload and form, Jasprit Bumrah remains a vital asset to the Indian cricket team. Sanjay Manjrekar's assessment reinforces the idea that Bumrah's value extends beyond mere pace. His overall skill set, adaptability, and mental fortitude make him India's best seam bowler, capable of delivering match-winning performances even when he is not bowling at his fastest. As the series progresses, managing Bumrah's workload and harnessing his strengths will be crucial for India's success.
