Ravi Shastri has once again sparked a significant conversation in Indian cricket, this time questioning the way the current team management is handling Jasprit Bumrah’s workload. Known for speaking his mind, the former India head coach stressed that managing a once-in-a-generation pacer like Bumrah requires “real cricketing brains,” taking an indirect dig at chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the current leadership group.

Bumrah remains India’s biggest match-winner across formats—someone who can flip games even on unresponsive pitches. But debates around his workload have intensified in recent months. The discussion heated up further after he played only three Tests in the high-profile Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy against England, despite being in exceptional form.

Ravi Shastri didn’t hold back while discussing the issue on Prabhat Khabar, saying, “Bumrah is a dada bowler. Bumrah ko lene ke liye bhi akal hona chahiye na. You made him a white-ball bowler, so how has he become a red-ball bowler?” He suggested that only sharp cricketing judgment can ensure Bumrah is used optimally and kept injury-free.

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It’s important to remember that Ravi Shastri himself was a key figure in backing Bumrah for Test cricket. Before his red-ball debut, many doubted whether his unconventional action and workload would survive the longest format. He shattered those assumptions, becoming India’s most lethal overseas bowler within just a few years.

However, the physical demands have been significant. Earlier this year, Bumrah developed back spasms after playing all five Tests against Australia, with discomfort becoming severe during the Sydney Test. That setback ruled him out of the Champions Trophy and forced him to miss the early part of the IPL.

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In response, the current management adopted a tightly controlled workload plan, which included limiting him to three Tests against England. Critics argue that the team must find a more balanced solution, rather than over-relying on Bumrah while also restricting him heavily.

As the debate continues, one thing remains clear—managing Jasprit Bumrah is as crucial as playing him. India’s success across formats hinges on getting that equation absolutely right.