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Jasprit Bumrah has been one of India’s most reliable match-winners since making his international debut in 2016. The fast bowler has delivered across all three formats, but managing his workload will be crucial as India prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes Bumrah should avoid playing all three formats for now. Instead, he wants the 32-year-old pacer to focus on Test cricket and carefully choose which ODI and T20I matches he plays.
India’s recent white-ball series against the West Indies have also highlighted the importance of having their premier fast bowler available. With the ODI World Cup approaching, Shastri believes the team management must be careful about how much cricket Bumrah plays.
Ravi Shastri Wants Bumrah To Focus On Test Cricket
Shastri, who returned to commentary after his tenure as India’s head coach ended in 2021, believes Bumrah’s workload needs to be managed with the bigger picture in mind.
He wants the fast bowler to remain available for important matches rather than play every series across formats. Shastri also stressed the importance of keeping Bumrah fit for India’s upcoming Test assignments against New Zealand.
“I don’t think he should play all three formats until the World Cup. He should focus primarily on Test cricket and feature sporadically in ODIs and T20Is. I’d rather preserve him for the two Tests in New Zealand, where he’ll be crucial,” Shastri was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
Bumrah To Miss Both White-Ball Series Against New Zealand
Bumrah has already been rested for India’s upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. He will also miss the five-match ODI series against the Black Caps, scheduled to take place from November 4 to 15.
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The fast bowler is expected to return for the two-match Test series, which begins on November 19 in Wellington. His presence will be important as India look to strengthen their bowling attack in the longest format.
Bumrah was one of the main performers for India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, where he took four wickets. His ability to perform under pressure makes him an important player for India, especially in big tournaments.
India Face Tough Challenge To Reach WTC 2027 Final
Shastri also spoke about India’s chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2027 final. He believes the Shubman Gill-led side face a difficult task and cannot afford many more setbacks in their remaining matches.
The two-Test series against New Zealand will be particularly important, with India needing victories to keep their qualification hopes alive. They will also have to perform strongly in their remaining fixtures against Australia and depend on results elsewhere.
“For India, qualifying for the final is an uphill task. They probably need to win around 90 per cent of their remaining games, including both Tests in New Zealand and at least four of the five against Australia. It’s not impossible, but a lot depends on other results as well,” Shastri said.