Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was always scheduled to play only three Test matches on the England tour, a decision taken keeping workload management in mind.
Sports News: Dark clouds are now looming over the Test career of Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering a new rule that could limit players' workload management and freedom to choose series. If this rule is implemented, it could have the biggest impact on players like Bumrah, who choose to play matches according to their body condition.
Workload Management Becomes a Controversy on England Tour
Recently, Bumrah played only three Test matches during India's tour of England. It was made clear during the series that Bumrah would only be fielded in three matches. The reason for this was the workload management of his body. However, when he did not play in the final Test at The Oval, the decision became a subject of criticism.
Team India's new head coach Gautam Gambhir faced criticism for this decision. Along with Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar, he is now in favor of limiting the number of players who select matches at their convenience.
BCCI May Bring in a New Strict Rule
According to a PTI report, the BCCI is now preparing to introduce a rule that will prevent players from choosing series or matches arbitrarily. There is intense discussion within the board that no player will now play according to their convenience, citing fitness reasons. The aim of this new rule is to ensure that players' priorities are in the interest of the national team.
Coach Gambhir, selection committee chief Agarkar, and senior board officials are united in the view that avoiding matches in the name of "workload" should stop. If this rule is implemented, it could directly affect Jasprit Bumrah, whose fitness history has been quite challenging.
Could Bumrah Retire from Test Cricket?
Bumrah's career has been brilliant, but at the same time, constant injuries have affected his availability. He has also been out for long periods due to back, groin, and muscle-related problems. This is the reason why the team management decided to limit his workload. But if the BCCI now does not give players the option of choosing which series or formats they will play, Bumrah may have to consider retiring from Test cricket. Given the long duration of Test matches, more overs, and heavy pressure on the body, it will not be possible for him to play continuously in every series.
However, Bumrah has not yet made any official comment on this subject, but in the event of the board's new proposals being implemented, the future path may be challenging for players like him.
