Despite criticism about Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said on Tuesday that there will be no change in plans for the fast bowler. The team wants him to be “available for all the big matches.” Bumrah is in India’s 15-player T20 squad for the Asia Cup in the UAE from September 9.
Bumrah played only three out of five matches in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England because of workload management. This also got some criticism.
At the press conference for the team announcement, Agarkar said, “I don’t think there is any written plan now. There has been a good break after the England series. The team management and physio are always in touch. Even before the injury, we were taking care of him because he is very important.”
Agarkar added, “We want him to be available for all big matches. I know every match is important, but there are big series like the World Cup, Champions Trophy, and tours to England and Australia. We want him to be ready for all of them.”
Bumrah’s Availability Confirmed
Agarkar said, “Most fast bowlers are monitored. Bumrah gets extra attention because of the injuries he had in the last two to three years. He is unique and special, and this will not change. Whether it is the next series or after six months, nothing will change.”
There were doubts about Bumrah’s availability for the Asia Cup because of the home Test series against the West Indies in October. But the selectors decided to include him. This will be Bumrah’s first T20 tournament after last year’s World Cup. Agarkar added that Bumrah’s participation in future tournaments will depend on his physical condition and will be discussed with the concerned people.
Shreyas, Shubman and Yashasvi Updates
Shreyas Iyer last played a T20 match in December 2023, scoring a half-century against Australia. After that, he could not find a place in the team despite good performances in the IPL and other tournaments. About Iyer’s exclusion, Agarkar said, “It is not Shreyas’ fault. We can only pick 15 players now, so he has to wait for his chance.”
Test captain Shubman Gill has been made vice-captain for the Asia Cup, while Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team. Agarkar said, “Gill performed well in England and is in great form. He gives more options for the top order. On reaching Dubai, the captain can choose the XI according to the opponent and conditions.”
Regarding Yashasvi Jaiswal, Agarkar said, “It is unfortunate that he could not make it to the team. Abhishek Sharma is included, and he also bowls a bit. We have many options in T20 cricket, and we are active about it.”