Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has strongly criticized the media for spreading false statements attributed to him regarding Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management. Taking to social media, Pathan clarified that he never questioned the Indian team or Bumrah’s commitment.
“Absolutely not. If Bumrah wanted to bowl another over or asked the captain for one when Joe Root came in, no team or management in the world would stop him. So please stop spreading fake news—I never questioned Team India on this,” Irfan wrote on X.
The discussion around Bumrah’s workload has been ongoing throughout the England Test tour. As per the BCCI, the pacer was scheduled to be available for only three of the five Tests, raising concerns about his fitness and availability in key matches. The debate has gained further traction ahead of the fourth Test in Manchester, starting July 23.
In the first Test at Headingley, Bumrah made a major impact with figures of 5/83 in the first innings, though India eventually lost the match. He returned in the third Test at Lord’s, producing another stellar performance with 7/112, but India suffered a narrow 22-run defeat.
As attention shifts to the penultimate Test, India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate spoke about the decision-making around Bumrah’s selection.
“No, we’ll make that call in Manchester still,” he said when asked about Bumrah’s availability.
He further explained that the final decision will take into account multiple factors, including India’s overall chances in the series, which concludes at The Oval.
“We have got to look at all the factors: how many days of cricket are we going to get up there, what do we feel is our best chance of winning that game, and then how that fits in together with The Oval. And looking at the last two games holistically as part of the series,” he added.
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