Mohammad Azharuddin has expressed his views on Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, stating that it requires better strategic planning and implementation, considering India’s current fast-bowling options. Bumrah participated in three of the five Tests against England, and India missed him in the games they lost. Azharuddin believes it’s important to ensure Bumrah is available when needed, and decision-makers have to find a way to manage this.
Bumrah took 14 wickets in the three matches he played but was rested for the final match when India trailed 1-2. India won the Oval Test to tie the series, but this raised questions about Bumrah’s workload. Azharuddin said that if there is an injury concern, the Board and the player must make a choice. Once in the team, players should not pick which matches to play. Workload exists, but it must be managed at this level, as players are representing their country.
Mohammad Azharuddin was impressed with Mohammed Siraj’s performances in all five Tests against England, where he took 23 wickets and was the top wicket-taker. Azharuddin called Mohammed Siraj a new superstar of Indian sport and praised his yorker to dismiss Gus Atkinson, securing a 6-run win for India at Kennington Oval in London. He mentioned that Siraj’s food habits have contributed to his strong physique, especially his legs and his fitness and strength that made him a super star. His enthusiasm was visible throughout the series, as he showed intensity and the wish to represent India. In the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, he took on his responsibilities well.
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Azharuddin, who captained India in England in 1992 and 1996, understands the challenge of leading the team there. Ahead of the tour of England, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s retirements had raised concern, and with no Mohammed Shami, Gill did not have complete backing. However, 45 days later, that perception has shifted. Azharuddin noted that many were worried about the captaincy of new captain Gill at the beginning of the tour. However, the young team performed very well in the end and gave good results. The batters, especially Shubman, KL Rahul, and Jadeja, played well. Gill has started his captaincy positively.
Azharuddin’s comments echo similar thoughts from former BCCI selector Sandeep Patil and legend Sunil Gavaskar. Bumrah is scheduled to play in the Asia Cup and might be rested for the opening Test against the West Indies in early October. The focus will be on the seam-bowling attack, with Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh secured. Prasidh Krishna, who has 25 wickets in the last IPL, and Harshit Rana are competing for the third slot.
