Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has raised concerns about Jasprit Bumrah’s Test future after noticing a drop in his pace and intensity during the ongoing Manchester Test against England. India’s ace pacer has been operating in the 130-135 kmph range — significantly slower compared to his performance in the Headingley opener, where he consistently bowled at 140 kmph.
In England’s first innings of the fourth Test, Bumrah managed to take just one wicket — that of keeper-batter Jamie Smith. At one point, he was also seen holding his ankle, raising further concerns about his fitness. Even commentators observed that Bumrah seemed to be bowling “well within himself” and “running in gingerly.”
“Get used to cricket without Bumrah” – Mohammad Kaif
Kaif believes the signs are worrying. “Jasprit Bumrah, I don’tthink you will see him playing in the upcoming test matches. And he might even take retirement. He is struggling with his body. His body has totally given up. His speeds have been on the lower side in the Manchester Test. There is no speed in this Test match,” Kaif said in a video shared on X.
He continued, “He is a selfless person. If he feels that he is not able to give 100 per cent for the country… then he himself will refuse. This is my gut feel.”
Kaif also pointed to Bumrah’s history of injuries — including a back spasm during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy — that kept him out of action for several months. “But he has lost to his body. He has lost to his fitness. His body is not supporting him,” Kaif said.
“I pray that my prediction is wrong. But what I saw in this Test match, I feel that he is not enjoying himself. His mind is sharp, but he has lost to his body,” he concluded.
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