The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering a review of Jasprit Bumrah's workload management policy following his absence from the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval. While it was pre-planned that Bumrah would only participate in three of the five Tests, his unavailability for the crucial series-deciding match has sparked concerns and prompted a potential reassessment of the current approach.
Bumrah's absence from the fifth Test, which began August 1st, 2025, has highlighted the challenges the team management faces in planning for long Test series when the availability of their premier fast bowler is uncertain. According to reports, the BCCI is contemplating a change in policy that would prioritize selecting Bumrah only if he is fully fit and available for the entire series.
A BCCI source stated that while strength and conditioning coaches can guide load thresholds, the ultimate decision on Bumrah's availability should depend on his match fitness, as assessed by the medical team before each assignment. This potential shift comes amid increasing scrutiny of Bumrah's sporadic availability, leading to suggestions that he might be "picking and choosing" matches. However, India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has refuted this claim, stating that Bumrah's availability is discussed as a team and decisions are based on his physical condition.
Bumrah's unconventional bowling action has always been a concern, making him prone to back stress fractures. He underwent back surgery in early 2023 and has had a history of injuries, including a thumb fracture in 2018 and an abdominal strain in 2021. The BCCI medical team has been cautious regarding his workload, which has sometimes affected India's Test results.
The current workload management system involves monitoring a bowler's weekly over count and considering their physicalCondition. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak explained that a spike in overs bowled or a player's feeling of fatigue would be considered when managing workload.
The Indian team management knew from the start of the England tour that Bumrah would only play three Tests. However, the specific matches he would participate in were not confirmed until the eve of the final Test. This uncertainty has made it difficult for the team to plan their bowling attack effectively.
With no five-Test series scheduled until at least July 2026, the BCCI has time to reevaluate its long-term strategies for managing Bumrah's workload. In the meantime, India only has two-Test home series against the West Indies and South Africa this year.
The fifth Test against England saw India bundled out for 224, with Gus Atkinson taking five wickets. In response, England's first innings ended with 242/8 before rain interrupted play on Day 2. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna were the pick of the bowlers for India.
