The former India cricketer highlighted Jasprit Bumrah’s match-winning prowess, stressing how many games he has single-handedly influenced in India’s favor.
Mohammad Kaif Defends Jasprit Bumrah Against Criticism
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif strongly defended Jasprit Bumrah, cautioning critics to think twice before questioning the premier pacer’s commitment. Bumrah, who faced backlash during the England tour for missing Tests due to workload management, has often been accused of picking matches selectively. Some even suggested that India underperformed in games where Bumrah featured, after losing both matches he played in that series.
Kaif dismissed such narratives, highlighting Jasprit Bumrah’s proven ability to turn games single-handedly. He reminded critics of the numerous matches India has won due to Bumrah’s match-winning spells across formats. “Open your mouth carefully,” Kaif warned, urging detractors to check the statistics of how often Bumrah has delivered victories for India. Calling him a “diamond of India,” Kaif stated that Bumrah carries no blemishes and deserves respect for his contributions.
‘No problem in bowling 28 overs’
Mohammad Kaif strongly defended Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in India’s T20I squad for the Asia Cup, emphasizing that workload management should not be a concern. He argued that the 31-year-old pacer is more than capable of handling 28 overs across the tournament and stressed that his match-winning ability makes him indispensable in the shortest format.
“I have said before that Bumrah might not play long spells in Tests, but in white-ball cricket, if India reaches the Asia Cup final, he could play seven games. Bowling 28 overs over a two- or three-week-long tournament is manageable. He can be rested in one odd match against Oman or other weaker teams. After a break, he can return fully fit. I don’t see any issues with him bowling four overs per game. You need Bumrah in T20 because he can change the course of the game with his bowling,” Kaif explained.
With Bumrah leading India’s bowling attack in the UAE, his experience and lethal pace are expected to be crucial for the team’s chances in the upcoming Asia Cup.