Going into the England series, there was much talk about Jasprit Bumrah's workload and how many Tests he will play. The topic came to the fore as this is Bumrah's first Test appearance since the injury in Sydney earlier this year which ruled him out of action for a few months. But, once again Bumrah was right on the money as he claimed his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests. After Day 3's play, Bumrah talked about how his name in headlines gets traction. However, he pointed out that many had predicted that an injury can abruptly end his career but he has been playing international cricket for nearly a decade. He wants to focus on his preparation and do his best for the team.
"I can't control what people write," he said. "Nor am I trying to teach people what to write and what not to write about me. 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. Because if I let it get into my head, I will start believing it. I need my beliefs and my ways to dictate how I go. Not the way others want me to play.
"I always wanted to play for India. I played for India on my belief. I have played every format on my belief. 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 10 years in international cricket listening to all this. I have played the IPL for 12-13 years.
"Even now people keep saying this injury will be it. Keep waiting, I will not think about that. I will keep doing my work. Every three-four months there will be headlines, but let's see, I will play till it is in my destiny. 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."
Headingley Test nicely poised between two teams
On Day 3, Bumrah got the wickets of Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue to wrap up England's first innings and claimed the series' first five-wicket haul.
On Day 2, he had dismissed openers Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett and veteran batter Joe Root. Four catches were dropped off his bowling as well. England were bowled out for 465 and India took a nominal six-run lead. At the end of Day 3's play, the visitors were 90/2 with KL Rahul unbeaten for 47 and captain Shubman Gill still very new to the crease.