The ongoing Test series between India and England has ignited passions, not just among fans but also within the cricketing fraternity. Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional performance in the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, where he secured his 14th five-wicket haul, has further amplified these emotions. Despite his brilliance, the BCCI's decision to manage Bumrah's workload, limiting him to potentially only three of the five Tests, has sparked a wave of reactions.
Amidst this backdrop, cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar and Cheteshwar Pujara have made a heartfelt request to Bumrah through an unconventional channel: his wife, Sanjana Ganesan, a renowned sports broadcaster. During a live broadcast, Pujara initiated the conversation with Ganesan, urging her to convince Bumrah to play all five Test matches. Gavaskar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of Bumrah's presence, particularly in crucial matches like the one at Lord's and highlighting the favorable conditions for swing bowling in Manchester. Gavaskar humorously pointed out the gaps between the matches, suggesting that Bumrah could manage his workload effectively. "Basically, Jasprit, we need you. Please play all five Tests," Gavaskar implored.
The request underscores Bumrah's pivotal role in the Indian team. His recent form has been nothing short of sensational. Since 2024, he has claimed 78 wickets at an astonishing average of 15.07, including six five-wicket hauls. In stark contrast, all other Indian pacers combined have taken a mere 80 wickets at an average of 33.48, with just one five-for in the same period. This disparity highlights Bumrah's unmatched impact and underscores the concern that his absence would create a significant void in the bowling attack.
Ganesan, in her role as a presenter for the series' official broadcaster, conveyed the message to Bumrah during an interview on Day 4 of the first Test. With a smile, she relayed the request from Pujara and Gavaskar: "Jasprit, please play all five Tests, please." Bumrah's response was characteristically composed and non-committal. "That is a conversation that we will have on another day," he said, leaving the question unanswered.
The BCCI's rationale behind managing Bumrah's workload is to prevent potential injuries, especially considering his past struggles with back issues. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had stated that Bumrah's fitness is of paramount importance. However, the counter-argument is that Bumrah's presence is indispensable for India's chances of securing a series victory, especially an away series win in England under the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill.
Bumrah himself had indicated before the series that he would likely play only three matches, a decision presumably made in consultation with the team management and medical staff. The debate now centers on finding a balance between preserving Bumrah's fitness and maximizing his availability for the most crucial games.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Bumrah recently equaled Kapil Dev's record of 12 five-wicket hauls in away Tests, achieving this feat in just 34 matches compared to Kapil's 66. He also leads among Indian bowlers in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) with 10 five-wicket hauls.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Bumrah, the team management, and the BCCI. However, the passionate appeal from Gavaskar and Pujara, amplified by Ganesan's unique position, reflects the widespread desire to see Bumrah unleash his full potential throughout the entire series, reminding everyone of his importance to the team's success.
