Jasprit Bumrah's back injury has raised significant concerns regarding his long-term career prospects, with former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond warning that another injury in the same region could potentially end his career. Bumrah is currently receiving rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

The fast bowler has not participated in any matches since the fifth and final Test against Australia in Sydney, where he left the field for scans on the second day. Initially thought to be suffering from back spasms, the condition was later identified as a stress-related injury, which has ruled him out of the Champions Trophy.

Bond was one of the first fast bowlers in the modern era to undergo back surgery at the age of 29, the same age at which Bumrah had his procedure. Despite facing ongoing injury challenges, Bond managed to extend his career until the age of 34, but ultimately had to retire from Test cricket and subsequently from all formats within a few months.

“I believe Bumrah will recover, but it is crucial to manage his workload effectively,” Bond stated in an interview with ESPNCricinfo. “Considering the upcoming tours and schedule, it is important to identify opportunities for him to rest, as well as the periods that pose the greatest risk. The transition from the IPL to the Test championship often represents a significant danger.”

Could be a ‘career-ender’

Bond cautioned that the Indian team management must exercise caution during the five-Test series against England, advising Gautam Gambhir and his team to avoid playing Bumrah in more than two consecutive Tests. He emphasized that another injury at this juncture could potentially jeopardize Bumrah's career.

"He is too crucial for the upcoming World Cup and similar events. Considering the five Tests in England, I would advise against having him play more than two in succession. Transitioning from the IPL to a Test match poses a significant risk. Therefore, how they manage his participation will be critical.

"They might consider that there are four Test matches in total, or perhaps three. If we can ensure he remains fit throughout the English summer, we can then proceed with greater confidence in his ability to participate in other formats. This presents a challenge, as he is undoubtedly your top bowler; however, if he sustains another injury in the same area, it could be career-threatening, particularly since I am uncertain about the feasibility of undergoing surgery on that area again."

India's forthcoming tour of England is particularly challenging, consisting of five Tests scheduled from June 28 to August 3. Given Bumrah's extensive workload during the recent five-Test series against Australia, where he bowled 151.2 overs, including an exhaustive 52-over spell in Melbourne, Bond asserts that India must adopt an exceptionally cautious approach.

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