Jasprit Bumrah Addresses Ball Change Controversy During Test Match Against England
Bumrah's Cautious Approach to Ball Change Issues
During the ongoing third Test at Lord's, India's leading fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, chose to remain diplomatic regarding the contentious issue of frequent Dukes ball changes. This matter gained attention on the second day of the match, as it could potentially affect his match fees.
Just a few overs into the day's play, the Indian team raised concerns about the Dukes ball, which was already 10 overs old. The umpire attempted to check the ball's condition using a hoop, but it failed to pass through. Captain Shubman Gill was seen engaged in a heated discussion with the umpire, likely voicing his dissatisfaction with the ball replacement.
Even during the drinks break, Gill appeared frustrated while conversing with the umpire. The issue persisted when, after 48 deliveries, the ball lost its shape and required yet another change. In the final session, England also requested a replacement, but their ball passed the hoop test, allowing play to continue with it.
Fans and former players expressed their frustration over the frequent ball changes. When Bumrah was asked about the situation, he opted for a neutral stance, emphasizing that it was beyond their control. He stated, “The ball changes, I don’t really control that. Obviously, I don’t want to lose out on money because I work very hard and play a lot of overs. So, I don’t want to say any controversial statements and get my match fees deducted. But we were bowling with the ball that we were given. And that’s how it is. We can’t change it. We can’t fight it. Sometimes it goes your way. Sometimes you get a bad ball. That’s how it is,” during a press conference after the day's play.
Recognized as one of the best bowlers globally, Bumrah delivered an impressive performance, taking 5 wickets for 74 runs in challenging conditions. He played a pivotal role in dismissing key players like Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, and Joe Root, helping India gain an advantage. On the first day, young cricketer Nitish Kumar Reddy acknowledged Bumrah's influence, stating that they look up to him. Bumrah humorously remarked that Reddy's claim was exaggerated, asserting that he tries to assist the younger players as needed.
“Sir, first, that answer is a lie. He’s not asked me anything. But the other thing is that these youngsters are very confident. And they don’t need a lot of guidance or information. Whenever and whatever capacity they need me, I’m right there to help them out, and I share my experiences and what I learned in the previous tours over here,” he explained.
Bumrah further elaborated, “So that’s how as simple as I am trying to keep them. I’m not trying to jump into every conversation, give them too much information, or tell them to do things like I do because that’s not how it will work. My technique is different. My way of bowling is different, and my way of handling things will be different. And so it will be different for them. But if anything they require or any assistance they need, I try to help to the best of my capacity.”