Are Fitness Concerns Over Bumrah and Siraj Affecting India in the 4th Test?
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Synopsis
In the ongoing fourth Test against England, Ricky Ponting raises alarms about the fitness of Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. With heavy workloads taking a toll, will India be able to bounce back? This article delves into the impact of fatigue on performance and the pressure from England's openers.
Key Takeaways
- Ponting raises fitness concerns regarding Bumrah and Siraj.
- The heavy workload is impacting their performance.
- England's openers put pressure on the Indian bowling attack.
- Test cricket demands both physical and mental resilience.
- Strategic play from England is yielding positive results.
Manchester, July 26 (NationPress) Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has voiced his worries regarding the fitness levels of India fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj during the ongoing fourth Test against England. He noted that the demanding bowling workload is beginning to impact their performance. By the end of day three, Bumrah and Siraj had bowled 28 and 26 overs, respectively, but both had to leave the field briefly due to ankle issues. “That’s what makes Test cricket unique. It’s a rigorous physical and mental challenge. They’re fortunate to have had a long break before this match—a nine-day gap, if I recall correctly,” said Ponting.
“However, concerns about Bumrah and Siraj managing to endure this Test series with so many matches played have always existed. This marks the fourth game for Siraj. The toll is definitely starting to show,” he commented on Sky Sports just before day four commenced.
Ponting also expressed his apprehension about Bumrah not delivering his usual pace in Manchester. “Bumrah appeared somewhat off from the start of this match, to be frank. His average speed has hovered around 82-83 miles per hour throughout, which is significantly lower—by three to five miles—than his typical performance,” he added.
He further acknowledged the impact of England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, who applied relentless pressure on the Indian bowlers with their impressive 166-run opening partnership. “We must credit the English batsmen. Duckett and Crawley at the top effectively kept this Indian bowling attack under immense pressure from the outset. They’ve struggled to find a way to recover,” he noted.
“This style of play is characteristic of England’s strategy over the last few years, and it’s clearly yielding positive results for them.”
Point of View
It is imperative to provide an unbiased perspective. The fitness of key players like Bumrah and Siraj is crucial for India's performance in this Test series. Concerns raised by Ponting reflect a broader issue in cricket where player endurance is tested, especially in a rigorous format like Test cricket.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ricky Ponting say about Bumrah and Siraj?
Ponting expressed concerns about their fitness due to heavy bowling workloads, noting that it is starting to affect their performance.
How many overs did Bumrah and Siraj bowl?
By day three, Bumrah bowled 28 overs and Siraj bowled 26 overs.
What impact did England's openers have?
Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett established a solid 166-run partnership, applying significant pressure on the Indian bowlers.
