In a recent statement, Indian bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has defended Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management strategy, providing insight into the challenges fast bowlers encounter, specifically the combined physical and psychological strain of playing across all three cricket formats. Kumar’s comments arise amidst scrutiny from the cricketing community, including some former players, who have questioned Bumrah’s participation during the England Test series.
Prior to the series, it was announced that Bumrah would only play three out of the five Tests. Despite this pre-planned schedule, criticism followed his absence from the final match. India lost all three matches that he played. Bhuvneshwar, during an interview, argued that demanding Bumrah play every game is unrealistic. He also underscored the importance of managing players’ workloads for the sake of their careers. Bumrah is expected to return to action for the Asia Cup T20, beginning September 9th. His availability for the upcoming home Tests in the 2025-26 season is yet to be confirmed.