Jasprit Bumrah has long been India’s pace spearhead across all formats, but his recurring injuries have raised serious questions about how much more his body can take. Currently sidelined from the ongoing Oval Test against England, Bumrah is undergoing workload management, as it was pre-decided before the series that he would only feature in three of the five Tests. He played in Leeds, Lord’s, and Manchester.
Now, legendary Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has weighed in with strong advice for India’s premier quick. Speaking at the MRF Pace Foundation, McGrath stressed the importance of an off-season for fast bowlers to recharge physically, and said that Bumrah must be given a proper break to return stronger.
“99.9 per cent bowlers need an off-season to get strong again,” McGrath said, referring to the physical toll that modern-day cricket takes on fast bowlers. He also noted that Bumrah’s unique bowling action — a slow run-up followed by a sudden explosive burst at the crease — while being a major weapon, also puts immense stress on his body.
“His whole action is different to a lot of fast bowlers… he’sjust got a great wrist… Unfortunately what he does is pretty tough on the body,” McGrath said. “He really needs to get a lot stronger physically and fitter… And he needs an off-season. It will get him strong through the season.”
McGrath also highlighted the need for India to build a stronger pace unit around Bumrah to help manage the workload better. “You want your best bowler bowling… it depends a lot on the other bowlers. You need another group of fast bowlers coming through to balance it out,” he added.
Bumrah played three Tests in the current England series but showed signs of fatigue, particularly during the Manchester Test after putting in heavy spells at Leeds and Lord’s. McGrath likened the scenario to overworking a machine.
“I always say it’s like driving a car… It’s the nature of the beast. Being a fast bowler, we put a lot of stress on our bodies.”
Echoing McGrath’s views, Kevin Chevell, his long-time trainer, gave a clear timeframe for recovery. “Ideally, you need 8 weeks. You need to give the body the break it deserves,” he said.
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