Jasprit Bumrah’s Stellar Bowling Overshadowed by India’s Losses

On Wednesday, July 23, the fourth Test match in the series between India and England will begin. After the first three matches, the Men in Blue are losing 1:2, and they must win if they want to win this series against the Three Lions. The upcoming game will be hosted at Manchester’s stadium, and India’s coaches are seriously considering which roster to field for the game. Pacer Arshdeep Singh’s hand injury influenced this. But for now, people are talking more about fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Despite taking five-wicket hauls in two losses, the cricketer’s record shows India have a 20-23 win-loss ratio in his 47 Tests.

Reasons for criticism

On the eve of the game, some representatives of English cricket criticized Bumrah. Former player David Lloyd believes that India’s attacking play suffers when Jasprit leads the team. He emphasized that it is no coincidence that there is no reliable information about whether the cricketer will play in the fourth Test. Lloyd also recalled that the Men in Blue originally wanted to use Bumrah in three of the five Tests, but he played in the winning match at Edgbaston. Therefore, fans are actively debating which is better: cautious rotation or maximum use of key players.

Arguments in support of the player

The criticism may also be aimed at throwing Bumrah off balance ahead of the crucial fourth Test. However, many fans and experts have come to the player’s defense. They pointed out that he is under a lot of pressure and often does not receive adequate support from other bowlers. Former bowling coach Bharat Arun, for example, called on Jasprit’s teammates to step up.

Of course, statistics can highlight a player’s short-term difficulties. But the result always depends on the whole team, its successful actions, and mistakes on the field. Either way, Bumrah could be one of the key players in the fourth Test in Manchester, if, of course, he takes part in it.