Jasprit Bumrah might retire from Tests: Ex-India star drops bombshell amid pacer’s injury struggles

New Delhi: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has claimed Jasprit Bumrah might consider retiring from Test cricket soon amid constant injury issues hampering his performances. Bumrah’s career has been marred with multiple injuries over the years, reducing his effectiveness in the longest format. But he continues to be India’s go-to fast bowler in the longest format and is arguably one of the best in the world at present.

However, Bumrah seemed far from his best during England’s first innings on Day 3 of the ongoing 4th test in Manchester. The pacer was seen struggling during his spell and failed to generate his usual speed. He also seemed to have picked up a knock while bowling, raising concerns regarding his fitness and his long-time future in Test cricket.

Bumrah made a strong start for India in the ongoing Test series against England, with a five-wicket haul in the first Test in Leeds. He was rested from the second Test at Edgbaston and returned to action in the third Test at Lord’s, where he went on to pick another fifer in England’s second innings to prove his mettle overseas.

However, his performance dipped in the ongoing 4th Test in Manchester. Bumrah’s lack of pace was quite evident on Day 3 as India struggled to contain the English batters. Bumrah was seen leaving the ground during the final session of the day’s play, sparking injury concerns. However, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel ruled out any injury.

Speaking about Bumrah’s struggles in the Manchester Test, Kaif highlighted how the pacer’s body is not able to handle his workload. The former India batter said Bumrah might consider retiring from Test cricket due to his persistent physical issues. He also lamented the pacer’s lack of speed during the Manchester Test.

“I think Jasprit Bumrah may not be seen playing in the upcoming Test matches, and he may even retire. He is struggling with his body, is bowling slow, and did not show any speed in this Test match,” Kaif said in a video posted on his X handle.

“He is a selfless person, if he feels that he is not able to give his hundred per cent, that he is not able to win for the country, that he is not taking wickets, then he will himself refuse, this is my gut feeling,” Kaif added.

Bumrah, who majorly features in overseas Tests for India, has so far played 47 matches in the longest format and has 217 wickets to his name, with an impressive 15 five-wicket hauls and 7 four-wicket hauls. Bumrah has arguably one of India’s best bowlers across formats over the last few years, and has played a key role in the team’s success.