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"Awkward Action, Difficult To Sustain": Kapil Dev Doubtful Of Jasprit Bumrah's Future

Akshita Patel

Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah's action and injuries [Source: @goats_legend/X.com, AFP]Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah's action and injuries [Source: @goats_legend/X.com, AFP]

Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling action has been one of the most talked-about features in world cricket. But according to legendary India captain Kapil Dev, that same awkward action could also be the reason behind Bumrah’s frequent injuries and why it might be tough for him to last long in Test cricket.

In the last 5 years, Bumrah has suffered from serious back-related injuries, which forced Indian team management to craft a workload management plan for their ace pacer. 

For the ongoing Anderson Tendulkar Trophy against England, Bumrah has been advised to play just 3 Tests, and his quota is already over, as he featured in the Leeds, Lord’s, and Manchester Tests.

Kapil Dev Casts Doubt On Jasprit Bumrah’s Longevity In Test Cricket

Interestingly, Jasprit Bumrah didn’t have the best outing on Day 3 of the Manchester Test against England, and many fans on social media raised concerns about his pace and form. He appeared to be struggling, and some questioned whether his body could continue handling the pressure of bowling long spells.

Kapil Dev, however, came out in support of the pacer. Speaking to PTI at a recent PGTI event, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain said that Bumrah deserves full credit for still performing despite the heavy toll his bowling action takes on his body.

“I think everybody is different. Times have changed, bodies are different. They are working differently. It is difficult to judge. Yes, he is one of the fast bowlers we have, but his action is so awkward, and it is difficult to sustain,” Kapil Dev said.

However, the former legend did opine that Bumrah’s awkward action is the primary reason for his injury, and as a result, his longevity in Test cricket could be compromised.

“We didn’t think he would be able to play this far because he puts too much stress on the body. But still, he is delivering to the Indian team. So hats off to him,” he added.

Despite the criticism, Bumrah has proven time and again that he can rise in pressure situations. His ability to crack breakthroughs and build pressure in any given situation makes him a special talent for the Indian team.

Bumrah Unlikely To Play Oval Test Vs England

Amid workload concerns, Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to play the fifth Test against England scheduled at The Oval. He bowled 33 overs while conceding 112 runs in the second inning of the 4th Test at Manchester and twisted his ankle on Day 4. 

He appeared exhausted, and by the end of the day, his pace dropped significantly. With the fifth Test scheduled on Thursday, July 31, Bumrah will likely be dropped due to inadequate rest. However, everything is on the table for now, as India’s pace attack has depleted following Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh’s injuries.