Harbhajan Singh Questions Modern Workload Strategies
As India heads into a must-win fourth Test against England at Manchester on July 23, all eyes are once again on Jasprit Bumrah. With the series standing at 2-1 in England’s favor, India’s fast-bowling resources are under immense strain due to injuries in the squad. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has now stirred the debate by questioning the concept of modern workload management and sharing his candid views on Bumrah’s situation.
“Workload management is a new thing. In our time, fitness was the real workload. Players used to play five Tests without complaint,” Harbhajan said during the WCL 2025.
He pointed out how the emergence of IPL and shorter formats shifted the way bowlers train, with a focus on short spells over long-form endurance. Although he acknowledges the need for caution in case of injuries, Harbhajan believes today’s players are handled with extra caution compared to earlier generations.
Bumrah’s Commitment Never in Doubt, Says Harbhajan
Addressing Bumrah’s limited participation, Harbhajan clarified that while the speedster is not currently injured, his history of back problems has led team management to limit his appearances to only three Tests in this series — a pre-planned move to protect his body.
“Jasprit is the most honest cricketer. If he wasn’t in pain, he wouldn’t stop after bowling just four overs. He’d have pushed for a 10-over spell easily,” Harbhajan remarked.
He further explained that Bumrah’s unique bowling action, combined with a short run-up, puts extra pressure on his body — a factor that contributed to his past injuries.
Harbhajan believes that if Bumrah’s body holds up, he should be allowed to play all five matches, asserting that his presence could swing the series in India’s favor.
“If Bumrah plays all five Tests, India will win the series. Any opposition team will tell you – they don’t enjoy facing Bumrah.”
India’s Bowling Woes Ahead of Manchester Test
With Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh reportedly carrying injuries, India’s fast-bowling options have become alarmingly thin. In such a scenario, India may no longer have the luxury of resting Bumrah, despite the workload concerns. The upcoming Manchester Test is not only crucial to level the series but also to keep India’s hopes alive in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
India’s team management faces a critical decision: protect Bumrah for the long term or unleash him now when the team needs him most.
Also Read: ENG vs IND 2025: Nitish Kumar Reddy Ruled Out Due to Knee Injury
