Due to concerns about workload management, Jasprit Bumrah is probably going to be rested for the second Test of the series against England.

It is anticipated that India’s most effective weapon with the ball would be benched as they attempt a spectacular comeback against England at Edgbaston in the second Test. Despite the seven-day gap between the matches, Indian supporters have expressed some disapproval of the decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah, the one bright spot in a struggling attack at Headingley. This is especially true following the team’s five-wicket loss in the series opener.

Before the tour started, the team management had stated unequivocally that Bumrah, who is making his Test cricket comeback this year after a break due to injury, would not be participating in all five matches.  However, since then, the situation has evolved. The difference between Bumrah and the others at Leeds was glaring.  The remainder of India’s bowling attack lacked bite, consistency, and control, despite his relentless running and brilliant moments, such as his five-wicket haul in the opening innings.

The decision to rest Bumrah despite a week-long recuperation window has many wondering if India can afford to manage him thus conservatively while the team surrounding him is disintegrating, especially because the team is already behind in the series and its pace battery is clearly inexperienced.

But according to the statistics, Bumrah is in fact overworked, and that doesn’t even include the Indian squad.  In 2024, he has bowled the most overs of any bowler in the globe, with 410.4 overs.  Mitchell Starc of Australia is in second place with 362.3, but no other fast bowler has reached the 400-over milestone.

Most overs in Test cricket (since January 1, 2024)
Jasprit Bumrah – 410.4 (78 wickets)
Mitchell Starc – 362.3 (48 wickets)
Pat Cummins – 359.1 (51 wickets)
Mohammed Siraj – 355.3 (41 wickets)
Gus Atkinson – 328 (55 wickets)

Unquestionably, Bumrah has dominated the past year, but there has also been a risk.  India is taking things slow because of their lengthy schedule and history of back ailments.  However, the squad cannot afford to be so cautious at this moment.

At Leeds, Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Shardul Thakur appeared toothless, highlighting India’s greater dependence on Bumrah than before.  Additionally, India might give Arshdeep Singh his first appearance in the bowling lineup at Edgbaston, which would put Siraj in the lead.