Concerns Rise Over Jasprit Bumrah's Future in Test Cricket

Bumrah's Potential Retirement Looms

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has expressed concerns that Jasprit Bumrah, regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers globally, may soon retire from Test cricket. Kaif, now 44, believes Bumrah could follow in the footsteps of other cricket legends like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin.

During the ongoing fourth Test against England in Manchester, Bumrah's bowling speed has noticeably decreased from 140 kph to between 130-135 kph. While he consistently clocked over 140 kph in previous matches at Headingley and Lord's, his performance at Old Trafford has been markedly different.

The 31-year-old bowler faced fitness challenges during the third day's second session, where he was seen favoring his ankle and left the field after bowling just one over, conceding 11 runs.

"I doubt we will see Jasprit Bumrah in future Tests, and retirement might be on the horizon for him. His struggles are evident, and the decline in his pace is concerning. He is a straightforward individual; if he feels he cannot contribute fully to the team, he may choose to step back," Kaif remarked in a video shared on his social media account.

Bumrah's diminishing performance in England has raised significant worries. He showcased his talent with a remarkable five-wicket haul in the first innings of the series opener at Headingley but has since struggled.

After going wicketless in the second innings, he bounced back at Lord's with another impressive five-wicket haul. However, in Manchester, he has only managed to claim one wicket, that of Jamie Smith, after bowling 28 overs.

Kaif emphasized that while going wicketless is troubling, the drop in Bumrah's pace is even more alarming. Observing Bumrah on the field, Kaif noted that the top-ranked Test bowler seems to be battling personal fitness challenges rather than enjoying the game.

"Whether he takes wickets or not is one aspect, but bowling at 125 to 130 kph is concerning. The wicketkeeper had to dive forward for the catch; a fit Bumrah would have made that catch easily. He has the ability to dismiss any batsman at will. Although his passion remains, his physical condition seems to be failing him," Kaif added.

"His current inability to take wickets in this Test match suggests he may face ongoing challenges in future matches. With the departures of Virat, Rohit, and Ashwin, it seems we may soon see India play without Bumrah. I hope I am wrong in my predictions. It appears he is not enjoying this Test match," he concluded.

The Manchester Test is set to be Bumrah's final appearance in India's current tour of England, as part of his workload management. Currently, he ranks as the third-highest wicket-taker in the series, with 13 wickets from three Tests at an average of 26.69.