Robin Uthappa Calls Jasprit Bumrah India’s Biggest Match-Winner, Urges Rest

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has reiterated the need for careful workload management of premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, citing the unique physical demands of his high-pace action. Speaking on a cricket analysis show, Uthappa described Bumrah as an "absolute match-winner" whose demanding bowling style places significant stress on his body, making rest and rotation essential to sustain long-term fitness and performance.

Uthappa emphasised the delicate balance required in handling Bumrah's schedule. "Fast bowling is probably the toughest skill in the sport, and Bumrah does it at a high pace with a demanding action. You want to protect that, but at the same time, you want him to play enough cricket," he said. The comments come as Bumrah, rested for recent ODIs, has featured selectively in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa, where he played a starring role in India's dominant victory in the opening match.

The discussion around Bumrah's workload has been ongoing, given his history of injuries and pivotal role across formats. Selectors have increasingly adopted rotation policies to preserve him for major tournaments, including the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. Uthappa expressed optimism about Bumrah building consistency in the remaining games, highlighting glimpses of his brilliance that remain crucial for India's success.

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On the South Africa series, Uthappa noted the visitors' competitiveness despite inconsistencies in the white-ball leg after their 2-0 Test series win. He anticipated an intense decider in Ahmedabad, where South Africa must win to level the T20I series 2-2 following the fog-abandoned fourth match in Lucknow. Former South African pacer Dale Steyn echoed praise for his team's tour performance, calling it beyond expectations while hoping for a strong finish.

Steyn also lauded young Indian opener Abhishek Sharma's fearless batting and Shubman Gill's elegance, describing their strokeplay as a treat to watch. As the series heads to its climax amid concerns over potential pollution impact in Ahmedabad, workload debates underscore the broader challenge of managing elite fast bowlers in a packed international calendar.

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