How Jasprit Bumrah builds his fitness like Virat Kohli? India's former bowling coach explains

Many claim that one of the biggest reasons for the world-class pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, being so successful is his bowling action, which is unique and consistently outsmarts the batters. Even though it could be addressed as a small advantage, his body comes under so much stress, making him a regular candidate for various injuries. That’s why the BCCI has been cautious in managing his workload.

The former Indian bowling coach, Bharat Arun, explained that the Ahmedabad-born changed his bowling action after he failed to qualify for the Under-19 side in 2013 when the selection trials happened at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. That was when the fast bowler impressed Arun with his pace.

See Also: 'Gautam Gambhir loves to create...'- Rinku Singh shares other side of India's head coach ahead of Asia Cup 2025

“In all fairness, we also tried to change Bumrah’s action. He was remodeled, but then the action was great, and the ball was not going quickly. What’s the point in having a great action if the balls aren’t effective? He could bowl quickly, and so we discussed with the physio and the strength and conditioning coach. We said, I wouldn’t want to touch his action because it’s very unique and generates a lot of pace.” Arun expressed on the latest episode of Bombay Sports Exchange.

Bharat Arun explains how Jasprit Bumrah builds his fitness like Virat Kohli

Bumrah was advised to work on his fitness and bowling action. That was when he accepted it and gave up on the pizzas, burgers, and other fast foods as Arun compared his dedication towards fitness with the former Indian captain, Virat Kohli.

“We called him (Bumrah) and told him: ‘To take the impact of fast bowling, you need to be like a bull. That comes down to diet, exercise, and sacrifices.’ In all fairness, Bumrah instantaneously changed. He started eating healthy, and he was working out in the gym. Like Virat Kohli, he was extremely dedicated.” Bharat explained.

Across formats, for India or any other side, Bumrah is the most important bowler of the side. He recently missed the fifth Test in England at the Kennington Oval due to workload, which received so much criticism. He is now a part of the 15-member Asia Cup 2025 squad and can play a huge role in defending the title.