Sunil Gavaskar Wants BCCI To Protect Jasprit Bumrah After Back Spasm Injury, Says 'Should Not Be Overburdened'

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Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar expressed concern about Jasprit Bumrah's workload following his injury during the Test series in Australia.

Gavaskar emphasized the need for selectors to protect Bumrah, India's star pacer, from overuse and to develop the nation's bowling depth by utilizing its vast talent pool.

He pointed out the abundance of promising fast bowlers in domestic cricket, capable of forming a strong attack in all conditions. Gavaskar urged selectors to provide these emerging players with international exposure to fully assess their potential.

He stressed that failing to test young talents at the top level would hinder their growth and could leave India vulnerable, as evidenced by Bumrah's absence impacting India's six-wicket loss in the series-deciding Test against Australia.

"India has got loads of promising pacers who are waiting for an opportunity. Yes, Bumrah should not be overburdened, and if others step up, then we can have an attack that can win matches in any conditions. Unless they are given a chance, how will we know if those doing well in the Ranji Trophy will do well at the international level? Here's where good selections come in'', Gavaskar told PTI.

Bumrah was the only silver lining in India's disastrous Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, where they succumbed to a 3-1 loss. The only Test they won, was also under the 31-year-old speedster's tutelage. He finished with 32 wickets, earning him the Player Of The Series Award.

He couldn't bowl in the final session of the 5th Test due to a back spasm and as a result, he is most likely to sit out for the upcoming white-ball series against England as per reports, so that he can get fit in time for the Champions Trophy.

The Mumbai Indians already had a history of missing out several tours and tournaments and BCCI have always looked after him well. So this time also, the board will do what's necessary.