Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja does not see any logic in pace-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah playing in the T20 Asia Cup 2025 clash against UAE on September 10. Jadeja singalled towards Bumrah’s workload management during the Test series against England. He jokingly said that he will go on strike if Bumrah features in the side against UAE in their campaign opener.
"What is the need to play Bumrah tomorrow, man? Usually, you keep him wrapped in cotton wool. Now you need him even against UAE? Either don't protect him at all, and if you need to preserve him, then do it in these type of matches. Logic dictates that, but we never do things with logic. I will go on strike if Bumrah plays," Ajay Jadeja said on Sony Sports Network.
Bumrah hasn’t played a single T20I since the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa where he bowled a sensational spell. He was adjudged the ‘Player of the tournament’ for his record-breaking economy rate and crucial scalps throughout the campaign. Since then, the focus shifted to Test cricket and Bumrah’s workload was managed. He missed the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to back injury and returned into action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Bumrah’s T20I record vs UAE
In India's only T20I clash against UAE in T20 Asia Cup 2016, Bumrah featured in the playing eleven. He took the wicket of Mohammad Shahzad. From his quota of four overs, he conceded 23 runs.
If not Bumrah, then who?
On the eve of the UAE clash, Bumrah did not turn up for the optional practice session on September 9 as per a report by PTI.
In the captains’ press conference, Suryakumar Yadav indicated that India will go into the UAE clash with a strong playing eleven instead of experimenting. Suryakumar is not looking to take UAE lightly. In addition, Bumrah will need some game time before the high voltage clash against Pakistan on September 14.
However, if India rest Bumrah for the clash, the other fast-bowling option in the squad is Harshit Rana. They can also go with Arshdeep Singh and one pacer in all-rounder Hardik Pandya which will give them the luxury of having three spinners.