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"To Limit Test Cricket Is Shame": McGrath Suggests Remedy To Bumrah's Workload

Akshita Patel

Glenn McGrath dives into Jasprit Bumrah's workload debate [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]Glenn McGrath dives into Jasprit Bumrah's workload debate [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]

Fast bowling great Glenn McGrath feels that Jasprit Bumrah's unorthodox bowling action is tough on the body, and the Indian pacer needs regular breaks to stay fit. He said that in order to monitor Bumrah's workload, other bowlers must come forward and take responsibility.

Bumrah, who played only three Tests in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, was rested for the final match at the Oval due to medical advice. He was later released from the squad, raising debate over his longevity in the Test format.

Glenn McGrath Calls For Shared Responsibility From Indian Bowlers

Speaking at the MRF Pace Foundation event in Chennai, former legend Glenn McGrath pointed out that India needs to manage Jasprit Bumrah better, especially during long series. 

“You want your best bowler bowling. And he’ll want to bowl all the time. If he’s just bowling in short spells, then the batting team know they just can get through the three or four overs and then they’re away. So it depends a lot on the other bowlers," McGrath said.

He said it’s not only about Bumrah, the other Indian fast bowlers also need to step up so the ace pacer doesn’t have to bowl long spells all the time.

"You need another group of fast bowlers coming through to balance it out so that he doesn’t have to bowl long spells. You’ve got other bowlers bowling equally as well to carry the workload. You look at Bumrah, he’s so effective in ODI and T20 cricket. To limit himself to Test cricket would be a shame. But, he’s got to work out what’s best for him."

Earlier this year, Bumrah was overused during India’s tour of Australia, which led to a long injury layoff until mid-IPL 2025. Even in the England series, though he was rested for the final Test, he had already bowled many overs in the first three matches.

McGrath Blames Bowling Action For Jasprit Bumrah’s Woes

At the same event, Glenn McGrath opined that Bumrah’s action is very different from most fast bowlers, with a slow run-up and a sudden burst of pace right at the crease. 

“His whole action is different to a lot of fast bowlers. He’s got a slow run-up and the last few steps just really accelerate him through the crease. He’s got hyperextension, and he’s just got a great wrist. And the way he releases it is a fair bit closer to the batsman because of his technique than all other bowlers. So, there’s a lot that’s unique about him, but when he gets it right, it just all comes together well. He’s found what’s worked for him,” he added.

He also releases the ball closer to the batter because of his hyperextension and wrist position, which makes him effective but also puts a lot of stress on his body. McGrath suggested Jasprit Bumrah take a long off-season and train harder to be physically more fit. This will ensure his body can manage the workload better in the Test format.