'Even if He Gets Injured, I'll Salute Him Because...': Irfan Pathan Lauds Jasprit Bumrah

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels that the absence of Mohammed Shami is not affecting Jasprit Bumrah’s workload as his action, which he tweaked a bit since his comeback, is absolutely perfect now. Bumrah missed almost a year of competitive cricket due to a back injury in 2022-23 but since his return, the premier pacer has been in scintillating form for the Indian team across formats.

He returned during the Ireland T20I series in August last year and has remained injury-free since then. However, the absence of Shami has put some added responsibility on Bumrah, especially in the red-ball format. Shami is currently recovering from an ankle injury but the BCCI has not provided any timeline on his return.

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“Obviously, Shami’s absence does have an effect but that does not mean chances of injury will increase for Bumrah. His action is absolutely perfect now,” Pathan told PTI TV.

Since his return, Bumrah has increased his run-up by a step and also a bigger follow through which puts less load on the back because of his slinging action.

Pathan said there is definitely extra pressure on Bumrah in Shami’s absence as the duo share a healthy bowling partnership.

“When there is pressure from both sides, whether it is Shami taking wickets from one side or Bumrah working quietly from one side…

“Bumrah is taking wickets and Shami is working quietly, their partnership not only reduces the pressure on each other but also augurs well for the team,” the cricketer-turned-commentator said.

Pathan is in awe of Bumrah’s dedication and attitude towards the traditional format of the game.

“I have been a big fan of Jasprit Bumrah’s attitude, especially in Test cricket, the way he has given priority to Test cricket despite injuries,” he said.

“Even if he gets injured, I will salute him because he is trying his best. We all have to always keep this in mind.”

Having lost the first Test against England by 28 runs in Hyderabad, India will look to bounce back and level the series when the second match starts in Visakhapatnam on Friday.