Playing in England always brings new challenges: Bumrah

New Delhi

India’s top Test bowler Jasprit Bumrah said that playing cricket in England always brings a different challenge. He looks forward to bowling with the Dukes ball during the upcoming five-match Test series starting June 20 at Leeds.

Bumrah, the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year in 2024, shared his views on the Beyond23 YouTube channel. “I always love bowling in England. But when the ball gets soft, it’s harder to get wickets. That’s what makes it exciting,” he said.

So far, Bumrah has taken 37 wickets in nine Tests in England at an average of 26.27. He will lead a pace attack including Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Arshdeep Singh. Bumrah said his teammates can perform well, especially when facing England’s aggressive batting.

“They play an attacking style. But when batters go hard, any bowler can strike big on a given day,” he added.

Due to workload management, Bumrah may not play all five Tests. He admitted it’s tough to play every game and will now choose matches wisely to keep his body fresh for key events like the 2026 T20 World Cup.

“I never want to skip matches, but I must be smart. I don’t set number goals anymore. I just enjoy each day and make memories.”

Bumrah is also excited about cricket’s return to the Olympics in 2028. “It’s exciting to think about representing India at the Olympics. That would be special,” he concluded.