India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is once again in the spotlight, not for his fiery yorkers, but for a serious injury concern that could potentially end his career. Former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond has issued a strong warning, stating that another back injury “in the same spot” could be disastrous for Bumrah’s future in cricket.
Bumrah has been out of action since January, and according to reports, his return in the IPL is also uncertain. The pacer is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after sustaining a stress-related back injury during the fifth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. Initially diagnosed as back spasms, the issue turned out to be far more serious, ruling him out of the Champions Trophy.
“Another Injury Could Be a Career-Ender” – Shane Bond’s Big Warning
Bond, who himself suffered multiple back injuries during his playing days, has urged the Indian team management to be extremely cautious with Bumrah’s workload. The former Kiwi pacer warned that overburdening Bumrah, especially during the grueling five-Test series in England, could have irreversible consequences.
“Look, I think Bumrah will be fine, but workload management is the key. Coming out of the IPL straight into Test cricket is a huge risk. India must be careful not to play him in more than two Tests in a row,” Bond told ESPNCricinfo.
The biggest concern? If Bumrah suffers another injury in the same spot, it could be “a career-ender.”
“He’s too valuable for the next World Cup and beyond. If he has another injury in the same place, I’m not sure if surgery will be an option again. That’s why managing him properly is crucial,” Bond added.
India’s Tough Road Ahead: Five Tests in England
India’s upcoming tour of England will be one of their biggest challenges this year. The five-match Test series, scheduled between June 28 and August 3, will demand a lot from the bowlers, and Bumrah’s presence will be crucial.
However, considering the pacer’s recent workload—151.2 overs in the five-Test series against Australia, including a brutal 52-over spell in Melbourne—pushing him too hard could backfire.
What’s Next for Bumrah?
For now, the BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his recovery. But with the IPL, the England tour, and the next World Cup all lined up, the biggest question remains—how long can Bumrah’s body handle the pressure?
One thing is clear: if India wants their pace ace to last, they need to be smarter about managing his workload. Because one wrong move, and the cricket world might lose one of its finest fast bowlers forever.
