The ongoing debate over Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management has taken a fresh turn, with Indian cricket legend Dilip Vengsarkar joining the discussion. The former India captain believes the pace spearhead should have skipped IPL 2025 for the Mumbai Indians to remain “fully fit” for the high-profile Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 against England.
Bumrah, widely regarded as the best fast bowler in the world, has built an extraordinary career over 207 international matches, earning a reputation as one of India’s greatest match-winners. His ability to produce game-changing spells—whether in the pressure cooker of Test cricket or the glamour of the IPL—has made him indispensable.
However, his participation in only three of the five Tests against England has sparked criticism. Ahead of the series, Bumrah had informed the BCCI that he would play a reduced workload due to fitness concerns, particularly after a taxing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 where he starred with the ball.
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In the England series, Bumrah bowled 119.4 overs and took 14 wickets, but missing two key matches left many wondering if India might have clinched the series had he been available throughout. The five-match showdown eventually ended in a 2-2 draw. Vengsarkar believes the BCCI, selectors, and team management should have intervened to ensure Bumrah’s availability for all Tests, even if it meant skipping or limiting his IPL commitments.
“Considering the importance of the India versus England Test series and his fragile back, Bumrah should have been told by the BCCI, selectors, and team management to miss IPL 2025,” Dilip Vengsarkar told Times of India. “If I were chief selector, I would have convinced Mukesh Ambani and Bumrah to either skip or play fewer matches in the IPL. I’m sure they would have agreed.”
The 1983 World Cup winner went as far as to suggest that India could have secured the series victory had Bumrah played all five Tests.
“It was a series for the ages. I wish Bumrah was available for every Test—we could have won the series if that was the case,” Dilip Vengsarkar added.
While voicing disappointment over Bumrah’s absence in two matches, Vengsarkar was quick to defend the 30-year-old from harsh criticism. He reminded fans and pundits of Bumrah’s back surgery and the need to protect his long-term career.
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“You can’t blame Bumrah for missing matches. We must remember he has undergone back surgery, and his back is still vulnerable. You can’t question his commitment—he has given his all every time he’s played for India. I hope he returns fully fit after adequate rest,” Vengsarkar said.
The discussion around Bumrah’s workload is unlikely to fade anytime soon, with the pacer’s balancing act between IPL commitments and national duty remaining a hot topic. As India’s bowling talisman, his fitness and availability will continue to be a decisive factor in the team’s success across formats.
