‘Protect the match winner’: Former India batter warns of Jasprit Bumrah’s workload ahead of T20 World Cup | Cricket News

NEW DELHI: Jasprit Bumrah’s explosive pace and unorthodox action make him one of the deadliest weapons in world cricket – but they also put enormous strain on his body, a reality that India must manage carefully, former international cricketer Robin Uthappa has warned.Go beyond borders with our YouTube channel. REGISTER NOW!Speaking on JioStar’s Cricket Live, Uthappa highlighted the importance of workload management for India’s spearhead, describing Bumrah as both an invaluable asset and a physical risk if overused. “He is an absolute winner, and managing his workload is crucial,” Uthappa said. “Fast bowling is probably the most difficult skill in the sport, and Bumrah does it at a high pace with demanding action.”

Bumrah was rested for the recent ODI series against South Africa and earlier against Australia, decisions that reflect India’s cautious approach. His return to the T20I side, however, made an immediate impact, with the 32-year-old playing a key role in India’s emphatic 101-run win in the series opener in Cuttack.“You want to protect that, but at the same time you want him to play enough cricket,” Uthappa added. “We got a glimpse of his brilliance, and I hope he can establish some consistency over the next few games before the World Cup.”

The series itself had its share of disruptions, with the fourth T20I abandoned without a ball being bowled due to dense smog, putting the focus on the series decider in Ahmedabad – a must-win match for South Africa if they are to level the competition.Uthappa felt that the visitors showed competitiveness despite the inconsistency. “South Africa have been very competitive, but a little hot and cold. Their bowling has been good, but their batting has let them down at times,” he said, adding that the final match promises a fierce contest as the Proteas look to finish the tour strong.Former South African pace legend Dale Steyn echoed this view, saying his team had “exceeded expectations” on the tour. “Winning the Test series was exceptional,” Steyn said. “If India wins the T20I series, they deserve it. They have been the better team overall.”Steyn also reserved special praise for India’s young batting talents, singling out Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gil. “I love watching a classic revival,” he said. “Gill, when he gets going, is sleek and easy on the eyes. Even when you’re losing, you like watching someone like that bat.”