Sanjay Manjrekar attacks Jasprit Bumrah's workload management regime

Jasprit Bumrah has been the standout performer for India’s bowling attack in the first two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, often fighting a lone battle. Despite some late support from Mohammed Siraj in the Adelaide Test, their combined efforts weren’t enough to prevent a crushing 10-wicket defeat. Bumrah had been rested for the previous Test series against Bangladesh to manage his workload and ensure peak fitness for the high-stakes Australia tour. The decision to rest him seems to have paid off as Bumrah returned to spearhead the bowling unit in the three-match series against New Zealand, seamlessly stepping into the role and remaining a key figure in India’s last five Test matches. His presence on the field has been crucial in keeping the team competitive against top-quality opposition.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has emphasized Bumrah’s indispensability in the remaining Tests of the ongoing Australia series. He noted the pacer’s ability to deliver under pressure and highlighted the importance of preserving his fitness for key contests. Manjrekar also suggested implementing a strategic rotation policy for Bumrah during bilateral series to manage his workload effectively, ensuring his longevity and availability for marquee tournaments and critical matches. As the series against Australia progresses, India will hope that Bumrah continues to lead the bowling attack with the same determination and resilience, keeping their hopes alive in what has already proven to be a challenging campaign. His fitness and performance could be pivotal in turning the tide in India’s favor.

"I play him every Test match purely because Indian cricket takes care of Bumrah. And I've said this before as well, the number is etched in my head. 34% of international matches that India have played in the last three years is what Bumrah has played. Only 34% of what Indian cricket has played,” said former Indian batsman Sanjay Manjrekar. 

“So he's well rested. And this is when you need it because these are the series that will be remembered forever. Give him a break in one of those bilaterals that we forget 48 hours later,” he added. 

After Australia’s dominant 10-wicket victory in Adelaide, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy stands level at 1-1. The focus now shifts to the third Test, set to begin on December 14 at The Gabba in Brisbane. For India, the stakes are exceptionally high as they must secure a 4-1 series victory to guarantee their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final without relying on external results.

A single additional loss in the series would complicate India’s path to the final, leaving their qualification hopes dependent on the outcome of Sri Lanka’s upcoming series against Australia. Such a scenario would reduce India’s control over their destiny and place added pressure on the team to deliver in the remaining matches.