Irfan Pathan Takes A Jab On Bumrah's Snub (Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com, @IrfanPathan/x.com)
The concern turned into reality as Team India stepped into the second Test match without Jasprit Bumrah. Citing workload management, the senior bowler has been rested as Akash Deep replaced him in the playing XI.
In the only five-match Test series of India in the new WTC cycle, Bumrah’s absence in the clash is raising eyebrows. Irfan Pathan pointed out that Bumrah’s uncertainty is disrupting the rhythm of India’s bowling attack.
Irfan Pathan Fires Sharp Remark On Bumrah Snub
The workload management has become a big issue in modern-day cricket. Coming from a back injury, India’s team management is not taking any risks with Jasprit Bumrah as he has been rested for the ongoing second Test against England. Amid the bowling struggle in the first Test, Bumrah shone with a brilliant five-wicket haul in the first innings.
Speaking to Sony Sports, as quoted by Livemint, former cricketer Irfan Pathan remarked that constant chopping and changing in the name of workload management is disrupting the bowling unit’s consistency. Along with that, it is also affecting other bowlers' performances.
“If you are selected in the Indian team, you cannot pick and choose (which match to play) to manage your workload. There is no other bowler like him; he is world-class,” Pathan said.
“But here, you are not missing the match for injury but for ‘workload management’. Now Akash Deep will take his place, and be expected to do well as soon as he comes — and maybe he does — but any bowler needs time to settle in. That continuity is needed,” he added.
Bumrah’s Unavailability Only Deepens India’s Woes
Team India started the ongoing series on a woe after they faced a 5-wicket defeat against England in the first match. While the other bowlers struggled in the clash, Bumrah unleashed his brilliance and helped India. With India trailing at 0-1, Irfan Pathan believes his absence could cost the team dearly when they need the pacer the most.
“The main fast bowler of the lineup cannot play all five Tests overseas, so firstly, India don’t have Bumrah’s services throughout the series, and secondly, his replacement, a younger player, is only getting a chance to play when he doesn’t. So he does not have stability,” he said.
“This is the only overseas five-match series of the new World Test Championship cycle. This was the series in which Bumrah was needed most. If he had a niggle or an injury, I would understand. But just to manage his workload? Then I don’t think this is coming to India’s advantage,” he added.
As Team India is batting first in the match, the bowling test is yet to be witnessed. Stepping in for Bumrah, Aakash Deep will be eager to make his mark.
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