Jasprit Bumrah’s Workload Debate: Balwinder Singh Sandhu Criticizes Modern “Workload Management”

The workload of Indian bowlers has become a hot topic after Jasprit Bumrah sustained an injury during the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Bumrah bowled 151.2 overs in the series, while Mohammed Siraj bowled 164.1. However, with Bumrah potentially missing the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former India cricketer and 1983 World Cup winner Balwinder Singh Sandhu dismissed the concept of workload management, calling it a “foreign term.”

Speaking to Times of India, Sandhu shared his candid views on Bumrah’s workload:
“Workload? How many overs did he bowl—150-plus? But over how many matches? Five matches or nine innings? That’s roughly 16 overs per innings or 30 per match, bowled in spells. So, is that really a big deal?”

He went on to call the concept of workload management “nonsense,” saying:
“These are terms created by Australians. Back in our era, cricketers relied on listening to their bodies. I don’t buy into this idea of managing workloads.”

Sandhu argued that bowlers like Kapil Dev routinely bowled 25-30 overs in a day without complaints.
“Kapil Dev bowled long spells throughout his career. When you keep bowling, your body and muscles adapt. Bowling 15-20 overs in a day shouldn’t be a challenge for a professional bowler,” Sandhu emphasized.

Sandhu didn’t mince words when it came to setting high standards for Indian bowlers.
“Today, bowlers have access to world-class physios, masseurs, and doctors. If someone can’t bowl 20 overs in an innings, they should forget about representing India,” he remarked.

As of now, Bumrah’s availability for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains uncertain. His recovery will play a crucial role in determining his participation in the tournament.

Image Credits: CricShots

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