Beyond Bumrah: Are India prepared for life after their pace magician?

The Indian cricket team is gradually embarking on a busy cricketing calendar as they’re currently being hosted in their own country by Afghanistan for a three-match T20I series. Among the many talking points of the series is the return of fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who’s making his comeback to the team after missing the two Tests in Sri Lanka.

Bumrah has been the spearhead of the Indian bowling attack over the last eight years and one of the most important players in the team, as its success hinges on his performances. Before his debut, many would scoff at the idea of an Indian fast bowler dominating world cricket.

However, thanks to Jasprit Bumrah, that dream has been turned into a reality, courtesy of his marvellous exploits across formats. India had won 18 out of 141 Test matches in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia) countries until 31st December 2017.

Bumrah's impact in SENA Tests

However, after Bumrah’s debut on 5th January, 2018, India have tasted victory 13 times in SENA out of 40 Test matches. Out of these 13 wins, he has featured in ten matches and scalped 63 wickets, the highest ever by an Indian in a winning cause in SENA, at an astonishing average of 15.46. 

India in SENA Tests before Bumrah's debut

India in SENA Tests after Bumrah's debut

The right-arm speedster is already India’s most successful Test bowler in SENA countries, having scalped 159 wickets in 34 matches at an average of 21.46. Add to that, Bumrah’s contribution in the team’s back-to-back T20 World Cup triumphs, with a Player of the Tournament performance in 2024 and Player of the Match in the final of the 2026 edition.

Given all the numbers, it’s clearly evident that India have been far too dependent on Bumrah for success across all formats. However, the star pacer is about to turn 33 on December 6 this year and given his recurring injuries, the team management must be prepared for life without Bumrah.

India's attempt to build fast bowling arsenal

Over the past four years, India have handed debuts to Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Mukesh Kumar, Harshit Rana, Anshul Kamboj, Umran Malik, Gurnoor Brar, Avesh Khan, Prince Yadav, Deepak Chahar, among others.

However, none have shown the impact or calibre to be an all-format star like the senior pacer. Some exciting talents have also emerged, namely Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav and Auqib Nabi Dar. While Prince is relatively new at the international level, Mayank’s career has been marred by injuries.

On the other hand, Auqib is yet to make his international debut, having recently earned his maiden call-up for Sri Lanka Tests. Harshit Rana has shown some promise in ODIs but has also suffered multiple injuries in recent times.

All in all, India’s fast-bowling depth looks worrisome after its greatest magician capable of turning matches at will. The onus of leading the pace attack in his absence has often fallen on Mohammed Siraj’s shoulders, who’s done an admirable job in Tests. However, apart from him, none fit the bill.

What happens without Bumrah?

With the selectors consistently overlooking Mohammed Shami, India’s fast bowling future doesn’t seem too promising, especially given their recent struggles in white-ball series held in England. The team, which boasted one of the strongest fast bowling attacks in the recent past, capable of winning anywhere in the world, seems to be walking on thin ice in terms of future preparedness. 

India have already suffered in Bumrah’s absence in two major tournaments, namely the Asia Cup 2022 and the T20 World Cup the same year. With the ODI World Cup 2027 approaching, Bumrah again holds the key for the Men in Blue for the next 12 months. Another injury to the pacer could well be detrimental to India’s chances in the mega event.

It remains to be seen how the team manages Bumrah's workload in the lead-up to the mega event. However, a future without him is also imminent, and the fast bowling arsenal must be prepared to take up the responsibility sooner or later.