Debate erupts over Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in the fourth Test. Despite his stellar personal stats, India’s win rate is lower with him. Experts are divided, stirring major discussion in Indian cricket.
India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah finds himself at the center of a heated debate as the Indian cricket team prepares for the fourth Test against England, set to begin on July 23 in Manchester. While Bumrah has impressed with 12 wickets and two five-wicket hauls in the Leeds and Lord’s Tests, he was rested in the Edgbaston Test, which India won convincingly by 336 runs.
Will Bumrah Play in Manchester?
There is growing uncertainty about Bumrah’s inclusion in the fourth Test, as team management is reportedly following a workload management policy, planning to feature him in only three Tests in the series. With two already played, only one appearance remains between the final two matches.
Experts Call for His Return
Former Indian captains Sunil Gavaskar, Anil Kumble, and Dilip Vengsarkar have strongly backed Bumrah’s inclusion in the remaining matches. They argue that having a match-winner of his calibre is vital if India is to clinch the series.
David Lloyd Sparks Controversy with Statistical Claim
Former England cricketer David Lloyd has stirred controversy by claiming on Talk Sport that India tends to lose more often when Bumrah plays. Though he called Bumrah the best fast bowler in the world, Lloyd pointed out that the team’s overall success rate dips in his presence.
Stats Backing the Claim
- With Bumrah:
- Matches Played – 47
- Wins – 20
- Losses – 23
- Draws – 4
- Win percentage: 42.55%
- Without Bumrah:
- Matches Played – 27
- Wins – 19
- Losses – 5
- Draws – 3
- Win percentage: 70.37%
These numbers suggest that India performs better statistically without Bumrah, though many experts caution against reading too much into raw win percentages, given the team combinations, opposition, and match conditions.
But Bumrah’s Brilliance Is Undeniable
Despite the team’s mixed results during his presence, Bumrah’s personal record is extraordinary. He has taken 217 wickets at an average of just 19.48, making him the only bowler with an average below 20 among those with over 200 Test wickets—a testament to his world-class ability.
Experts believe that team over-dependence on Bumrah could be a factor, potentially reducing the impact of other bowlers. As a result, the Indian management faces a difficult decision—preserve Bumrah or unleash him when the series is on the line?
A Stir in Indian Cricket
As fans and pundits wait anxiously, the question remains: Will India field their best weapon in Manchester, or will workload management keep him on the sidelines? The answer could define the outcome of the series—and possibly the future of team strategy.
Follow us On Our Social media Handles :
Also Read Pune’s Latest Updates
