Managing Bumrah’s Workload: Insights from Ravi Shastri
Former India coach Ravi Shastri has shared valuable advice on how the team can handle pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s workload during the upcoming five-match Test series in England.
Bumrah recently showcased his skills by taking 32 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Unfortunately, a back injury later ruled him out of both the England tour and the Champions Trophy. However, he seems to have regained his form in the IPL after recovering from the injury that occurred during the last match of the Border-Gavaskar series.
In an interview with The ICC Review, Shastri emphasized the need for careful management of Bumrah’s innings in England. “I would be very, very careful with Bumrah,” he stated. Shastri suggested that the bowler should play two Test matches at a time, taking breaks as necessary. He advised monitoring Bumrah closely, noting, “If he feels any slight discomfort, he should take a break.”
Shastri believes that India’s fit pace trio, including Bumrah, will pose serious challenges for England’s batsmen when the series kicks off in June. This series will mark the beginning of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle for 2025-27, with India entering it off the back of a Champions Trophy win.
The Indian Test team is eager to bounce back after a disappointing 3-1 series loss against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which dashed their hopes for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s.
Shastri expressed confidence in the trio of Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami, stating, “If they are fully fit, they will give England plenty of headaches.” He highlighted Siraj’s recent performances as well, noting his improved pace and determination.
Overall, Shastri views the upcoming matches as a crucial opportunity for India, with hopes high for their star bowlers to shine against England.
