Dilip Vengsarkar Supports Jasprit Bumrah, Suggests He Should Have Skipped IPL to Manage Workload
Former Indian cricket captain Dilip Vengsarkar has voiced his concerns regarding Jasprit Bumrah‘s participation in IPL 2025, suggesting that the pacer should have been advised to skip the tournament. Vengsarkar believes that this decision could have ensured Bumrah was in peak condition for the crucial five-Test series against England, which concluded in a 2-2 draw. He emphasized the significance of having a fully fit Bumrah for such an important series, given his ongoing recovery from a back injury. Vengsarkar’s comments come in light of Bumrah’s limited appearances in the Test series, where he missed two matches due to workload management.
Workload Management Debate
The discussion surrounding Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management has intensified, particularly after his limited participation in the recent Test series against England. Vengsarkar pointed out that Bumrah’s absence from two Tests was a significant loss for the Indian team. He argued that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selectors should have prioritized Bumrah’s fitness over his participation in the IPL. Vengsarkar stated, “Considering the importance of the India versus England Test series and his fragile back, Bumrah should have been told by the BCCI, selectors, and the Indian team management to miss IPL 2025.” He believes that the decision-makers should have communicated the necessity of Bumrah’s rest to both him and the Mumbai Indians’ owner, Mukesh Ambani.
Vengsarkar’s perspective highlights the ongoing tension between franchise commitments and national responsibilities. He expressed that while IPL performances are memorable, the impact of a Test series like the one against England is far more significant in the long run. He lamented the missed opportunity for Bumrah to contribute fully to the series, which he described as a once-in-four-years event.
Bumrah’s Performance in IPL 2025
Despite the ongoing debate about his workload, Jasprit Bumrah had a notable performance in IPL 2025. He played in 12 matches for the Mumbai Indians, where he bowled a total of 47.2 overs and claimed 18 wickets. His contributions in the IPL were significant, especially considering he was returning from a back injury that had previously sidelined him from the 2025 Champions Trophy in the UAE. However, his performance in the Test series was scrutinized, as he managed to take 14 wickets in three Tests at an average of 26.00.
Bumrah’s absence from the second and fifth Tests raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the rationale behind his workload management. Vengsarkar defended Bumrah, stating that the bowler’s commitment should not be questioned, especially given his recent back surgery. He emphasized the importance of being cautious with Bumrah’s health, suggesting that the focus should be on his long-term fitness rather than immediate match appearances.
Impact of Missing Key Players
Vengsarkar also addressed the impact of missing key players in the Test series, particularly former captain Virat Kohli. He expressed that if he were the chief selector, he would have encouraged Kohli to participate in the England series before retiring from Test cricket. Vengsarkar believes that Kohli’s experience and class were crucial for the team during such a challenging series. He stated, “We needed his class and experience in England,” highlighting the importance of veteran players in high-stakes matches.
The absence of both Bumrah and Kohli in critical moments of the series has raised questions about the team’s strategy and selection process. Vengsarkar’s insights reflect a broader concern within Indian cricket regarding the balance between player management and the need for experienced players in pivotal series. As the team looks ahead, the focus will likely remain on ensuring that key players are available and fit for future challenges, particularly with the next five-Test series against Australia scheduled for January 2027.
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