India’s recently concluded tour of England will be remembered as a fiercely contested series where the Shubman Gill-led side showed remarkable resilience to draw 2-2. The campaign not only produced several standout individual performances but also reassured fans that the future of Indian Test cricket remains bright, even after the retirements of stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin.

Amidst the highs, one of the most debated topics was workload management, particularly concerning pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Despite being fit, the team management decided to stick to their rotation plan, playing the 31-year-old in only three of the five Tests.

Jasprit Bumrah featured in the first, third, and fourth matches but was rested for the series-decider at The Oval, even though India trailed 1-2 at that stage. In contrast, Mohammed Siraj shouldered the responsibility across all five Tests. This approach sparked criticism, with many questioning if India’s best bowler should have been available in a must-win encounter.

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Weighing in on the debate, batting legend Virender Sehwag offered his perspective on Sony Sports Network. According to the former opener, workload management is crucial for bowlers, especially pacers, but not as necessary for batsmen.

“I think workload is important mainly for fast bowlers. For batsmen, it’s not such a big issue since they don’t have to play as many high-intensity overs. But for bowlers, if managed properly, they can extend their careers and stay fit for crucial tournaments,” Virender Sehwag explained.

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He further added that India’s chances of success in marquee events like the Asia Cup and World Cup largely depend on having a fully fit pace attack. Fortunately for India, speculation regarding Bumrah’s absence from the Asia Cup was put to rest when the selectors confirmed his inclusion in the 15-member squad for the tournament beginning September 9.

For fans, the takeaway is clear: India’s rotation strategy may divide opinions, but keeping Bumrah and other fast bowlers fit for global tournaments remains the ultimate priority.