Trisha Ghosal in London
After bowling India back into the contest on a surface that got quicker as the day progressed, Jasprit Bumrah became the latest Indian name etched into the Lord’s Honours Board.
No Joy in the Moment: “I Was Just Tired”
Yet, there was no celebration after he completed the five-wicket haul. “No sir, there is no headline. I was just tired. That’s the reality,” Bumrah said, when asked why he looked underwhelmed despite a five-wicket haul. “I’m not 21 or 22 anymore to jump around. I was happy to contribute, but it was a long day. I just wanted to go back and bowl the next ball.”
On Over-Rates: “We’re Human Too”
Just 75 overs were bowled on Day 2, bringing the total lost overs to 22 across two days despite using the extra half-hour. With penalties and WTC point deductions looming large, Bumrah was asked about the lagging over-rate. His response was both practical and empathetic.
“It’s hot, it’s tough on the body. We’re human beings. You can’t rush it and compromise on quality. Yes, there are new rules like starting the over within 60 seconds. That might help, but weather and fatigue matter. Eventually, when it gets cooler, maybe we’ll get in more overs.”
Leadership Role: “Nitish Lied, He Doesn’t Ask Me Anything”
Bumrah was amused when told that Nitish Kumar Reddy had said the group follows “whatever Bumrah bhai says” when it comes to leading the bowling unit. “Sir, that’s a lie. He hasn’t asked me anything,” Bumrah said, laughing.
“These boys are confident. I share experience when asked, but I don’t over-instruct. My method is different, and theirs will be too. I’m just available if they need me.”
On Judgement and Scrutiny: “Even Sachin Sir Was Judged”
Even with the pedigree Bumrah carries, scrutiny doesn’t stop. “As long as I wear the Indian jersey, I’ll be judged. That’s how professional sport is. Even Sachin sir played 200 Tests and still got judged,” he said. “There are so many cameras. People are chasing views and subscribers. If they’re making money off my face, maybe they’ll give me blessings,” he added with a smile.
Milestones vs Memories: “Shami Bhai and I — That’s My Favourite”
While Bumrah acknowledged the significance of the Lord’s Honours Board, he said it’s the memories that matter more. “It’s nice to have my name up there. My son will see it one day. But the most memorable Test here for me was when Shami bhai and I helped India win with the bat. We bowled them out in 60 overs after being behind. That feeling is unmatched.”
No Big Changes, Just Basics
Bumrah said he made no dramatic adjustments from Day 1 to Day 2, but credited the pitch for quickening up. “Top of off stump, that’s still the rule. The pitch got faster with heat. You stick to basics — swing, nip, discipline.”
Ball Change Frustrations: “Can’t Say Much, I Want My Match Fees”
He didn’t hide his frustration at the unpredictable nature of ball changes but steered clear of controversy. “I can’t control that. Sometimes you get a bad ball, sometimes it helps. I won’t say too much, I’ve worked too hard to lose match fees!”
Learning the Slope: “Stopped Overthinking It”
Bumrah also shared how his understanding of the Lord’s slope has evolved. “In 2018, I kept thinking about the slope and got nothing. Now, I just focus on my strength and skill. That works better. Conditions vary, so you adapt.”
Final Word: “I Want to Learn Everything”
His hunger to grow remains undiminished. “In 2018, I added out-swing here. I’ve always felt I’ve got one career — I should learn everything I can. That’s still my drive.”
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