The way narratives about his career have changed dramatically in the last year is something that India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah can’t help but laugh at. Previously doubted as to whether he would be able to get back into form after a lower-back stress fracture, Bumrah has now re-established himself among the world’s top fast bowlers.
Bumrah underwent surgery for a lower back stress fracture in 2022 which saw him miss the T20 World Cup held in Australia.Just before his comeback, he had a strain leading to an absence of over ten months. This created doubts on whether he could play thrice in three formats.
But Bumrah has made his critics swallow their words during past one year through his performances.
“Look, they were saying that I’m not going to play again and my career is done and all of a sudden it shifted,” Bumrah said referring to those who didn’t believe his ability to bounce back from adversity.
Bumrah’s return to form has been an exhibition on how to handle pressure and ignore things which you cannot control. “I am not looking at if I am bowling at the best of my ability.I try solving what is there in front of me,” he explained.“So it may sound cliché …but here on this wicket what is the best option?”
Another key thing that has helped him succeed is being free from pressure. “Because if I look at the outside noise, if I look at people and pressure and emotion takes over, then things don’t really work for me,” said the thirty-year-old star athlete
In this regard, despite these difficulties IPL presented tough situations for bowlers; Bumrah along with other members of Indian bowling team performed well under conditions at T20 World cup pitches he added.“We played IPL obviously it wasn’t very bad towards bowlers but we are very happy we didn’t come here with that baggage” Bumrah stated.
His relationship with captain Rohit Sharma has played a vital role in many games. “We were very clear the message in the huddle was that now that is over, what is next? What are the things that are in our control? So, we will try to focus on that and not to create panic,” he said.
During low-scoring matches, keeping one’s head becomes crucial. “If we go for magic deliveries and try to be too desperate, run-making becomes easy and they know the target. So, we had to be very mindful of not overdoing it,” Bumrah explained.
Bumrah also praises his fellow bowlers as he appreciates their efforts which usually goes underreported. ”I always advocate bowlers but we’re very glad with the appreciation coming towards bowlers because obviously our country is a batsman loving country so you understand but we’re very happy that bowlers are coming up front”.
