Australian bowling great Glenn McGrath has issued advice to India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing the importance of managing his workload to prolong his cricketing career. McGrath, in his discussion, pointed out the factors making Bumrah susceptible to injuries, also drawing attention to the rigorous international cricketing schedule.
Bumrah has faced ongoing struggles with recurring back injuries, significantly affecting his career trajectory. The origin of his injury troubles traces back to 2022, when a severe back stress fracture forced him out of the T20 World Cup. This incident dealt a significant blow to the Indian team, given Bumrah's reputation as one of the top bowlers globally, particularly renowned for his precision and effectiveness in the death overs.
The injury also caused Bumrah to miss IPL 2023, followed by a surgery in New Zealand to address his persistent back issues. With the operation proving successful and Bumrah achieving a pain-free status, he began his journey back to the cricket field. His recovery process was closely monitored by the National Cricket Academy (NCA) staff, with VVS Laxman expressing satisfaction over Bumrah's progression following several practice games.
In an inspiring twist of events, Bumrah made a victorious comeback to international cricket in August 2023. He not only earned a spot in the T20Is in Ireland but was also designated the captaincy of the Indian squad.
"He is exceptional, and he is unique. The way he bowls, his run-up, and his delivery stride are very unique. But his bowling action and the way he goes about it does put a lot of stress on his body, so he needs to stay strong. If he does that, he can play for quite a few years for India," McGrath said in an interview with Sportstar.
"The current international schedule, the IPL, and other T20 tournaments make it harder for fast bowlers like Bumrah to play in all three formats but some bowlers can do it."
The timing of Bumrah's return is certainly a relief for the Indian team management, considering the injury concerns surrounding their key players ahead of the World Cup. Bumrah is expected to be fit and prepared for the ODI World Cup commencing October 5.
McGrath further underlined the critical aspect of workload management, citing instances of legendary fast bowlers and his personal experience.
"There is a lot of cricket played these days. It puts a strain on your body, but you have to know how to recover and find time to put strength back on your body."
"Guys like James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Courtney Walsh played for many years as they knew how to manage their bodies. I worked hard on my fitness, and I had an easy action which made my comeback from Injury easier," added McGrath.
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