Title: You Can’t Pick & Choose if Selected for India: Irfan on Bumrah
The Indian cricket team’s decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test against South Africa has sparked a heated debate among fans and experts alike. While some have praised the move, citing concerns over Bumrah’s workload and potential injury, others have criticized the decision, arguing that it sends the wrong message to the team. Ex-India cricketer Irfan Pathan is among those who have expressed their disappointment with the decision, stating that if you’re selected for the Indian team, you can’t pick and choose when you want to play or not.
In a recent interview, Pathan questioned the decision to rest Bumrah, saying, “If you’re selected for the Indian team, then because of workload, you cannot pick and choose. You have to be available for the team whenever you’re needed.” He added that Akash Deep, the young pacer who will replace Bumrah in the second Test, will find it difficult to achieve stability in his performance since he will only play during Bumrah’s absence.
Pathan’s comments are a stark reminder of the importance of availability and commitment in international cricket. While it’s understandable that players need rest and recovery time, the decision to rest Bumrah for a bilateral series against a relatively weak opponent like South Africa has raised eyebrows. The Indian team management’s decision to rest Bumrah has been criticized not only by fans but also by some former players, who have questioned the team’s priorities.
Bumrah’s absence is a significant blow to the Indian team, which has been relying heavily on his skills and experience. The pacer has been one of the most successful bowlers in the world, and his absence will be felt deeply in the team. However, Pathan’s comments are not just about Bumrah’s absence but also about the bigger issue of availability and commitment in the Indian team.
Pathan’s criticism of the team management’s decision is not unfounded. In recent years, the Indian team has been plagued by issues related to availability and commitment. Players have been missing games and series due to various reasons, including injuries, fatigue, and personal reasons. This has led to a situation where the team’s strength and depth are constantly being tested, and the team is often forced to rely on inexperienced players to fill the gaps.
The Indian team management’s decision to rest Bumrah is a reflection of this bigger issue. While the team’s priorities may be understandable, the decision to rest Bumrah sends a message that it’s okay to pick and choose when you want to play or not. This can have far-reaching consequences for the team’s morale and performance. If players are not committed to the team and its goals, it’s difficult to achieve success over a long period.
Pathan’s comments are a reminder that in international cricket, players need to be available and committed to the team at all times. The Indian team management must take a more holistic approach to player management, considering not just the workload and fatigue of players but also their commitment and availability.
In conclusion, Irfan Pathan’s comments on Bumrah’s absence are a timely reminder of the importance of availability and commitment in international cricket. The Indian team management’s decision to rest Bumrah has raised eyebrows, and Pathan’s criticism is not unfounded. If the team is to achieve success in the long term, it’s essential that players are committed to the team and its goals, and that the team management takes a more holistic approach to player management.
