Jasprit Bumrah, one of India’s premier fast bowlers, has been the subject of growing concern due to recurring back injuries. Former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond, who has faced similar challenges in his career, has issued a stern warning about the potential long-term consequences for Bumrah if his workload is not managed carefully.
Bumrah first suffered a stress-related back injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where he picked up 32 wickets in five Tests but broke down during the final match in Sydney. The pacer underwent back surgery in March 2023 and has been dealing with rehabilitation since then. He missed key events like the Champions Trophy 2025 due to recurring back issues.
Risk of career-ending injury
Bond, who himself retired prematurely due to chronic back injuries, has raised alarms about Bumrah’s future. Bond warned that another injury in the same spot where Bumrah had surgery could potentially end his career. He explained that further surgeries might not be feasible, making prevention critical.
“If he has another injury in the same spot, that could be a career-ender because I’m not sure you can have surgery on that spot again,” said Bond as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
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Workload management is the key
Bond emphasized the importance of managing Bumrah’s workload carefully, especially during high-stakes tournaments and tours. He advised against playing Bumrah in more than two consecutive Tests during India’s upcoming five-Test series in England. Moving from IPL to Test cricket poses significant risks due to the drastic change in bowling intensity and workload.
“The transition from IPL to Test cricket will be a huge risk. He’s too valuable for the next World Cup and stuff. So, you’d be looking at five Tests in England, I wouldn’t want to be playing him in any more than two in a row.,” Bond added.
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