India is now switching focus to the T20 format, and the team is ready to field its strongest playing XI in its Asia Cup 2025 opener against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai on Wednesday. But not everyone agrees with this decision.
Former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja openly questioned the move to play star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah in this match.
“Why do you need Bumrah against the UAE? Normally, you protect him like treasure. If you really want to preserve him, then this is the match to do so. Either protect him fully or don’t protect him at all. There is no logic in risking him in such games,” Jadeja said on Sony Sports Network.
Bumrah is returning to T20 internationals for the first time in 14 months, since India won the World Cup in Barbados last year. Earlier this year, he suffered a stress fracture due to a heavy workload, especially after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Because of that, he missed the ODI Champions Trophy in Dubai in March. Even during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England, he was only allowed to play three Tests, which meant India couldn’t use him fully in the long series.
Jadeja further added, “I mean no disrespect to the UAE; their captain Muhammad Wasim is very talented. But this is a World Cup-winning Team India. If Bumrah still plays tomorrow, then I will protest.”
Irfan Pathan Supports Jadeja but with a Twist
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also agreed that Bumrah should be protected. However, he pointed out that if a player is selected to play a tournament, then he should play all matches instead of picking and choosing.
“You must protect Bumrah, I get that. But when you enter a tournament or a series, you should play it fully. It’s not about recovery or workload management, it’s about playing. Once you gain momentum, you should not lose it,” said Pathan.
He also suggested India’s bowling combination:
- Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel as main bowlers
- Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube as all-rounders at No. 7 and 8
Pathan explained that if India chooses to bat till No. 8, then there won’t be space for wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the XI.
After playing the UAE, India’s next big clash will be against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday in their Group A encounter.
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