Glenn McGrath’s insights on Jasprit Bumrah’s injury concerns highlight the challenges faced by a fast bowler with an unconventional action. Bumrah has been a crucial asset for India since his international debut in 2016, but his unique bowling style, which puts excessive strain on his back, has made him more susceptible to injuries. His latest setback, a lower back injury sustained during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney, has kept him out of action since January, and there is still uncertainty surrounding his return. Reports suggest he may miss the early matches of IPL 2025, raising further concerns about his availability for India’s crucial assignments later this year.
McGrath, one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, emphasized that Bumrah’s action naturally places more stress on his body than other pacers, making injury management a key aspect of his career going forward. He acknowledged Bumrah’s ability to make comebacks but warned that, as he ages, he needs to be more strategic in handling his workload. The Australian legend also stressed the importance of an effective off-field routine, stating that a fast bowler needs constant "fueling," comparing it to keeping a car in top condition. He noted that his own career longevity was aided by a less strenuous bowling action, whereas Bumrah’s high-intensity deliveries demand even greater physical maintenance.
Bumrah’s fitness will be crucial for India’s upcoming England tour, where the team will rely on his ability to swing and seam the ball in challenging conditions. Having taken 37 wickets in 17 innings in England, he has already established himself as a vital part of India’s pace attack in overseas Tests. His availability for the five-match Test series, beginning on June 20, could be a decisive factor in India’s chances. Given his injury history, team management will likely monitor his workload carefully to ensure he remains fit for marquee tournaments like the World Test Championship and the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Apart from international assignments, Bumrah’s absence from IPL 2025 could be a significant blow for Mumbai Indians (MI), the franchise he has represented with distinction since making his IPL debut in 2013. He has been the linchpin of MI’s bowling attack, playing a pivotal role in their multiple title wins. If he misses the initial phase of the tournament, it will create a massive void in the team’s bowling lineup, forcing the franchise to rethink its pace attack strategy. The IPL also serves as a crucial platform for players to regain match fitness, and missing out on the tournament could further delay Bumrah’s return to peak form.
McGrath’s advice comes from experience, as the Australian pace legend was known for his remarkable fitness and ability to stay injury-free for the majority of his career. His approach to fast bowling focused on consistency, accuracy, and longevity rather than sheer speed, which helped him maintain his effectiveness over a long period. On the other hand, Bumrah’s unique action and reliance on explosive pace and sharp variations put immense pressure on his body, making injury management an ongoing challenge.
The Indian team management, led by head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma, will have to make some tough calls regarding Bumrah’s workload. His absence was deeply felt in previous tournaments, including the 2022 T20 World Cup, where India’s bowling attack struggled without his presence. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already been cautious about managing his fitness, ensuring he undergoes extensive rehabilitation before returning to competitive cricket.
Moving forward, Bumrah will need to strike a balance between playing regularly and maintaining his fitness levels to avoid further breakdowns. Strength and conditioning programs tailored to his unique bowling style, along with adequate rest periods between matches, will be essential to ensure he remains an asset for Indian cricket in the years to come. His role in guiding the next generation of Indian fast bowlers, including emerging talents like Prasidh Krishna and Umran Malik, will also be crucial in shaping the team’s long-term pace strategy.
As India prepares for a demanding international calendar, including overseas tours and crucial ICC events, the fitness and availability of key players like Bumrah will play a decisive role in shaping the team’s fortunes. Whether he makes a swift return to action or requires an extended break for rehabilitation, his long-term fitness remains a top priority for Indian cricket. McGrath’s words serve as a timely reminder that even the most talented fast bowlers must adapt their approach to sustain a long and successful career at the highest level.
