Jasprit Bumrah is struggling physically, may retire from Tests: Mohammad Kaif

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif said that Jasprit Bumrah could consider retiring from Test cricket, as persistent physical issues appear to be hampering his effectiveness in the longest format of the game. Bumrah, who has long been India's go-to fast bowler, seemed far from his best in the ongoing Manchester Test, raising concerns over his fitness and long-term prospects.

Throughout Bumrah’s international career, injuries have been a recurring theme. Much of that has to do with his unorthodox bowling action, which involves minimal run-up and places considerable strain on the back. In an era where cricket's calendar offers little time for recovery, such a physically demanding action has taken its toll.

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Bumrah had a promising start to the England tour, but his form appears to have dipped in the fourth Test. During the final session at Manchester, the pacer was seen walking back to the dressing room, prompting speculation about his physical condition. Although bowling coach Morne Morkel stated that Bumrah was not injured, his lack of pace in the match tells a different story. He bowled just one delivery over 140 kph, a rare sight for someone known for regularly hitting those speeds.

Bumrah to retire from tests? pic.twitter.com/PnMR2y6oEi— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 26, 2025

Reflecting on the situation, Kaif hinted that the time might be right for Bumrah to step away from the red-ball format.

"I think Jasprit Bumrah may not be seen playing in the upcoming Test matches, and he may even retire. He is struggling with his body, is bowling slow, and did not show any speed in this Test match," Kaif said in a video posted on his X handle.

Kaif pointed to Bumrah’s noticeably lower speeds during the Manchester Test as a potential red flag. "He is an independent person, if he feels that he is not able to give his hundred per cent, that he is not able to win for the country, that he is not taking wickets, then he will himself refuse, this is my gut feeling"

Kaif concluded by warning fans to brace for a Bumrah-less Test future, especially with Indian cricket already in transition following the exit of stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin. "First, Virat Kohli, then Rohit Sharma went, and Ashwin is not there. Now, maybe Bumrah also I think you will have to get used to watching Test matches without him."

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Published By: Amar Panicker Published On: Jul 26, 2025

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