Kapil Dev Praises Jasprit Bumrah's Resilience Amid Workload Management

In a recent discussion, former Indian captain Kapil Dev reflected on Jasprit Bumrah's remarkable career in Test cricket, emphasizing the challenges posed by his unique bowling action. With Bumrah's workload management being a focal point, Dev praised his contributions to the team while acknowledging the physical demands of the sport. As Bumrah approaches significant milestones, including equaling Ishant Sharma's record for most Test wickets in England, the cricketing community watches closely. This article delves into Bumrah's journey, his current performance, and the implications of his injury management on his career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2025, 01:51 IST

Kapil Dev's Insights on Bumrah's Bowling Career

New Delhi, July 26: Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev has expressed his thoughts on fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, admitting he never anticipated that Bumrah would sustain his career in Test cricket given his challenging bowling style.

During the announcement of India's squad for the Test series in England, chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that Bumrah has been advised against playing consecutive Tests to manage his workload. This caution arises from a stress reaction in his back that he suffered during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney earlier this year.

Bumrah participated in the first and third Tests, showcasing his exceptional bowling skills, yet India faced defeats in both matches. Currently, with two Tests remaining, India is behind in the five-match series, trailing 1-2. Bumrah is actively playing in the ongoing fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, but is expected to miss the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, scheduled at Kennington Oval in London from July 31 to August 4.

Commenting on Bumrah's workload management, Kapil Dev stated, “Times have changed; players' bodies are different, and their training methods vary, making it difficult to judge any individual. He is undoubtedly one of the best bowlers. We never imagined he would have such a lengthy career due to the strain he puts on his body. Nevertheless, he continues to contribute significantly to the team. As a fan of the sport, I hope he doesn't retire anytime soon, but everyone must eventually step away.”

In the fourth Test match against England, Bumrah concluded the first session of the fourth day with bowling figures of 2/112 in 33 overs, claiming the wickets of Jamie Smith and Liam Dawson.

With these two dismissals, Bumrah matched the record of legendary cricketer Ishant Sharma for the most Test wickets by an Indian in England, totaling 51. The 31-year-old has achieved this in 12 matches, averaging 26.19, including four five-wicket hauls.

In comparison, Ishant has also taken 51 wickets in 15 Test matches in England, with an average of 33.35 and two five-wicket hauls.

Earlier on Friday, Bumrah reached the milestone of 50 wickets in England, becoming the third Asian bowler to achieve this feat, following Wasim Akram (53) and Ishant Sharma (51).

This accomplishment came during the fourth Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Old Trafford. Bumrah now holds 50 wickets in 12 matches, with an average of 26.38 and an impressive economy rate of 2.79.

He has also recorded four-wicket hauls in his career. After the third day of the fourth Test, Bumrah had bowled 15 overs, conceding 48 runs and taking one wicket of wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, with his overall figures reading 1/95 across 28 overs.

Despite being the third-highest wicket-taker in the series with 13 wickets in five innings at an average of 26.69, including two five-wicket hauls, his performance appears modest as he returns to Test cricket following a lengthy injury hiatus during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 against Australia, where he set a record with 32 wickets at an average of 13.06, including two four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls.