Ravi Shastri Slams Selectors: “You Need Sense to Use Bumrah Properly”

By Dipesh Sharma | New Delhi: Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri has once again criticized the Indian team management over the handling of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Shastri emphasized that managing a bowler of Bumrah’s caliber requires intelligence and strategic thinking, as the young pacer can turn any match around.

“Bumrah Needs Sense to Be Used Effectively”

Shastri, speaking in an interview, referred to Bumrah as a “dada bowler” and said, “You need sense to use Bumrah. If you’ve made him a white-ball bowler, how did he become a red-ball bowler?” His remarks were widely seen as a subtle dig at Selection Committee Chairman Ajit Agarkar.

Shastri played a pivotal role in introducing Bumrah to Test cricket, despite initial doubts about his action being suitable only for white-ball cricket. Bumrah has since proven critics wrong, performing consistently across formats.

Battling Injuries and Workload Management

Earlier this year, Bumrah struggled with a back injury during India’s five-Test series against Australia. The injury forced him to miss parts of the Champions Trophy and the initial IPL matches. In response, the management created a special workload plan for him.

For instance, during the England Test series, Bumrah was slated to play only three matches. While the decision drew criticism, the team prioritized his long-term fitness. Since then, Bumrah has been available for almost all international matches, skipping only select ODIs against Australia and South Africa.

Returning for South Africa T20I Series

Bumrah featured in all four home Tests against West Indies and South Africa, as well as the Asia Cup and the T20I series against Australia. Currently on a short break, he is set to return for the five-match T20I series against South Africa starting 9 December, showing the management’s careful handling of his fitness.

Bumrah’s injury history highlights the importance of workload management. Ensuring his fitness is crucial for maintaining his peak performance and longevity in international cricket. Fans eagerly await the return of one of India’s most lethal pacers.