Bumrah has only played 34% of international matches in last three years: Sanjay Manjrekar

In the first two Test matches of the Broder-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25, Jasprit Bumrah has been the only bowler for the Indian squad. Although Mohammed Siraj received support at the conclusion of the Adelaide Test, it was ineffective as India lost by ten wickets. In order to keep Bumrah healthy for the Australia tour, he was rested for the Test series against Bangladesh.

However, the pacer returned for the three-match Test series against New Zealand and has been a regular member of India’s starting lineup for the past five Test matches. According to former Indian cricket player Sanjay Manjrekar, the right-arm bowler is essential for the next Test matches against Australia. In order to reduce workload, he also offered a statistic that suggested Bumrah be rested for the bilateral matches if necessary.

“I play him in every Test match just because Bumrah is taken care of by Indian cricket.

The number is ingrained in my memory, and I have also stated this previously. Bumrah has participated in 34% of India’s international matches during the past three years. Just 34% of Indian cricket’s total play Manjrekar

He’s slept well, then. And since these are the series that people will always remember, now is the time to get it. In one of those bilaterals that we forget 48 hours later, give him a break,” he continued.

The series stands at 1-1 following Australia’s 10-wicket victory in Adelaide, and the third Test is set to start on December 14 at The Gabba in Brisbane. For India to advance to the World Test Championship Finals on their own, they must win the series 4-1. They will be dependent on the result of Sri Lanka’s series against Australia if they suffer another series defeat.