“Can’t pick and choose”- Mohammad Azharuddin slams Jasprit Bumrah

Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin has opined that Jasprit Bumrah should manage his injury and workload in a much better way, and he cannot pick and choose tests he can play.

In Indian cricket, Jasprit Bumrah's workload has been the talk of the town. Although Bumrah is by far India's top bowler in all forms, there are still many concerns about his availability.

In an effort to control his workload, the fast bowler only participated in three of the five Test matches in the India vs. England series. Mohammed Siraj was largely responsible for India's victories in the two Test matches in which he did not play.

Workload needs to be managed: Mohammad Azharuddin to Jasprit Bumrah

Since Bumrah's significance cannot be understated, the former Indian skipper feels that the decision-makers need to figure out a means to ensure that the bowler is available whenever the team needs him.

"If there is an injury issue, then the Board and the player have to decide. However, I feel once you are in the team, you can't pick and choose your matches. There is a workload, but at this level, you must manage it. You are playing for the country,” Mohammad Azharuddin told Mid-day.

Jasprit Bumrah managed to take 14 wickets in three tests he played. He took two five-wicket hauls as well, including one against England at the Lord’s.

Thankfully Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj rose to the occasion: Mohammad Azharuddin

Azharuddin commended Prasidh Krishna and Muhammad Siraj for filling in for Bumrah at Edgbaston and the Oval, but he feels that it isn't the best idea to leave out the Gujarat pacer while he is healthy.

"It was a different story that Siraj, along with Prasidh [Krishna] and Akash Deep, rose to the occasion, and we were fortunate that we could win without Bumrah, but what happens if India needs Bumrah badly in a particular situation?" Azharuddin added.

Beginning next month, Bumrah is anticipated to make a comeback in the Asia Cup 2025. India will play the West Indies at home in their upcoming Test series in October.

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