In a cricketing era increasingly tilted in favour of batters, the role of bowlers risks being pushed into the background — a concern that Indian great Ravichandran Ashwin has openly addressed. With the game evolving rapidly, Ashwin has raised an important question about the long-term future of India’s bowling attack, especially in the eventual absence of Jasprit Bumrah.
While Ravichandran Ashwin remains confident about India’s dominance in white-ball cricket, he believes that success will largely continue to stem from the country’s batting depth.
“The pedigree of white-ball batters that we have is something else. I have no doubts that India will go on to win quite a few white-ball trophies over the next decade. That will be from our batting,” Ravichandran Ashwin said during an interaction with Revsportz.
ALSO READ: Anil Kumble Backs Virat Kohli To Innovate with Reverse Sweep In IPL 2026
However, he didn’t shy away from highlighting a looming concern. “What happens after Bumrah? He is a defining figure in this white-ball side,” Ravichandran Ashwin added, underlining the massive impact Bumrah has had across formats.
Alongside him, India once enjoyed a formidable pace battery featuring names like Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj — a unit that consistently delivered on the global stage. Digging deeper, Ashwin pointed to a structural shift in how the sport is perceived.
“I am worried bowling is not as attractive as batting… It’s like you are entertaining people, giving those sixes,” he remarked, suggesting that young cricketers may be less inclined to take up bowling in a format dominated by big hitting.
WATCH – Rajasthan Royals Unveil IPL 2026 Jersey As Riyan Parag Begins New Captaincy Era
Despite these concerns, there are early signs of hope. Talents like Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana have shown promise, while emerging names such as Auqib Nabi hint at a new generation ready to step up. The challenge, however, will be ensuring they can fill the massive void left behind when Bumrah eventually moves on.
