Sanjay Manjrekar, a former Indian cricketer, has expressed his support for Jasprit Bumrah to participate in every Test match, highlighting that the leading fast bowler has only featured in 34 per cent of the matches played by the Indian team over the past three years. He noted the significant physical demands placed on the top-ranked Test bowler, who has already bowled 54 overs in the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Bumrah excelled as the standout bowler for India in Perth and Adelaide, claiming 12 wickets. His impressive five-wicket haul in the first innings of the Perth Test was instrumental in securing a commanding 295-run victory for India. However, he received limited assistance from teammates Harshit Rana and Mohammed Siraj at the Adelaide Oval, prompting discussions about whether Bumrah has adequate support.

At 31 years of age, Bumrah has participated in six out of India's last seven matches, missing only the Test in Mumbai against New Zealand. Nevertheless, Manjrekar is confident that Indian cricket prioritizes Bumrah's well-being and ensures he is well-managed.

"I would select him for every Test match because Indian cricket looks after Bumrah. I have mentioned this previously; the statistic is firmly in my mind. He has played only 34% of the international matches that India has contested in the last three years. Therefore, he is well-rested. This is crucial, as these series will be remembered for a long time," Manjrekar stated in an interview with ESPNCricinfo.

"Consider giving him a break in one of those bilateral series that are quickly forgotten," he added.

Additionally, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has also advocated for Bumrah to play in all remaining Tests against Australia, barring any injury. In a conversation with India Today, Gavaskar emphasized that Bumrah is the top-performing bowler, thus there is no justification for resting him.

Is India heavily reliant on Bumrah?

Jasprit Bumrah has been shouldering the majority of the responsibilities in the Test series against Australia. However, a concerning incident occurred in Adelaide when Bumrah was seen clutching his abductor muscle. Although he quickly resumed play, there are apprehensions regarding his ability to endure the entire duration of the Australia tour.

"This situation prompts reflection, as Shami has often been a close second or even the primary choice, with Bumrah typically in the second position. Mohammed Siraj has also been part of the bowling lineup, consistently giving his best effort," stated Manjrekar.

"Nevertheless, the question remains whether his skills and natural talent will suffice. India must continue to seek a third seamer who can closely match the performance of the leading bowlers. Harshit Rana showed considerable promise during the Perth Test. It is crucial to prioritize the identification of a bowler who can step in should Bumrah be unavailable, ensuring that the team does not revert to the past scenario of relying solely on one primary fast bowler," he continued.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is currently tied, with India and Australia set to compete in the third Test at Gabba, Brisbane, commencing on December 14.

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