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"Fast bowling toughest skill": India urged to handle Bumrah with care for T20 World Cup

Akshita Patel

Jasprit Bumrah's workload debate reignites [Source: @ICC/X.com]Jasprit Bumrah's workload debate reignites [Source: @ICC/X.com]

Workload management debate around India’s biggest match-winner, Jasprit Bumrah, has ignited again. Robin Uthappa has now urged the team to protect the pacer, especially with the T20 World Cup 2026 in sight.

India have shown some caution in recent months. During India’s Test tour to England, the right-arm pacer played only 3 Tests. 

Bumrah was also rested during parts of the ODI series against South Africa and earlier against Australia.  

Robin Uthappa on Bumrah’s workload management

However, with the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, India recalled Jasprit Bumrah for the T20I series against South Africa. Still, his workload remains a big concern.

Speaking on JioStar, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa described Bumrah as a priceless asset but also a physically vulnerable one. 

With his explosive pace and unique bowling action, Bumrah puts enormous stress on his body every time he runs in. 

"He is an absolute match-winner, and managing his workload is crucial. Fast bowling is probably the toughest skill in the sport, and Bumrah does it at high pace with a demanding action," Uthappa said.

According to Uthappa, fast bowling is already the toughest job in cricket, and Jasprit Bumrah does it at the highest intensity. 

Uthappa also believes the balance is delicate. Bumrah needs game time to stay sharp, but overuse could backfire. 

“You want to protect that, but at the same time, you want him to play enough cricket. We've seen glimpses of his brilliance, and hopefully he can build consistency over the next few games heading into the World Cup," he added.

The timing of this warning is important. The T20I series itself has already been disrupted, with one match abandoned due to heavy smog. 

Moreover, the T20 World Cup is just less than two months away. So, India must exercise extra precaution. 

Jasprit Bumrah’s form is also a concern

Apart from fitness, Jasprit Bumrah’s T20I numbers show a clear dip after his back injury. In 2024, he was near-unplayable, averaging just 8.27 with an economy of 4.18 and starring in India’s T20 World Cup win. 

In 2025, those numbers have worsened sharply, with a higher average of 23.00, strike rate of 18.5 and economy of 7.42. 

Injury, heavy workload and different powerplay usage have reduced his impact, even though his skill remains unquestioned.