Jasprit Bumrah has returned to Test cricket after battling a stress reaction in his previously operated back, resuming his role as Indiaβs leading and most threatening bowler. During his time away, there were concerns about the toll his injuries could take on his career, with experts warning that another setback might end his Test journey. However, Bumrah remains unfazed by such speculation.
Facing Criticism and Staying Focused
Bumrah addressed the headlines openly, saying, “I can’t control what people write… Everybody is free to write what they want. I understand cricket is very popular in our country, and I understand that using my name in the headline boosts the viewership. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter to me.” He emphasized that he relies on his own beliefs rather than external opinions, explaining, “I need my beliefs and my ways to dictate how I go. Not the way others want me to play.”
A Decade of Perseverance
Reflecting on his career, Bumrah shared how he has constantly faced doubt: “I always wanted to play for India… I have always heard ‘no’ from people. First they said ‘you won’t be able to play’; then they said ‘you will last only six months’; then they said ‘you will last only eight months’, and just like that I have spent ten years in international cricket listening to all this. I have played the IPL for 12-13 years.”
Despite the ongoing challenges, he remains committed to his craft: “Even now people keep saying this injury will be it. Keep waiting, I will not think about that. I will keep doing my work… I prepare my best, and leave the rest to god. Whatever barkat [abundance or good fortune] god has given me, I try to carry it forward, and try to take Indian cricket forward.”
Managing Workload and Staying Present
The recent injury has influenced Bumrah’s approach to workload management. He has communicated to team management that he will not play all the Tests in the current series, which is also why he declined the captaincy role. Despite this, he maintains a clear focus on the present moment, saying, “You don’t look at what is going to happen in the future… I was not thinking about what will happen or how many games I will play. At this moment, focusing on the Test match.”
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Keeping Expectations in Check
Bumrah recognizes the pressure of expectations but refuses to let it weigh him down. “The expectations… can be extra baggage, which I don’t want to carry,” he said. He shared a personal mantra:
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Bumrahβs determination to focus on his performance rather than outside noise continues to inspire fans and teammates alike as he strives to lead India forward.
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