'If You're Unfit, Then Don't Play at All' – Former India captain slams Jasprit Bumrah after ENG vs IND 2025 3rd Test

Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar has come down hard on the management of Jasprit Bumrah’s workload during the ongoing Test series against England. Following India’s narrow 22-run defeat in the third Test at Lord’s, Vengsarkar questioned the rationale behind resting Bumrah for the second Test, especially after a seven-day gap post the series opener. Bumrah, who was rested at Edgbaston despite India trailing 0-1, is expected to feature in only three of the five Tests.

“What is important is playing for India, and if you are unfit, then don’t play at all. He had a gap of almost 7-8 days after the first Test match but still was not included for the second Test, which was not acceptable. Maybe it was acceptable for Agarkar and Gambhir,” Vengsarkar told RevSportz, referring to Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. He expressed disappointment in players being allowed to pick and choose games despite being on tour.

“I’m not in favor of bowlers picking and choosing Test matches. If you’re fit and available, you should play all the matches for your country. Bumrah is a world-class bowler, and he can win matches for India. But once you’re on tour, you need to play every match. There’s no question of selecting matches based on personal preference,” he added, underlining that fitness should dictate availability—not workload plans.

Bumrah shines, but India fall short at Lord’s

Despite missing one match, Bumrah remains India’s second-highest wicket-taker in the series, having taken 12 wickets in just two Tests at an average of 21.00, including two five-wicket hauls. However, his absence in the second Test drew criticism as India entered the match trailing and ultimately failed to level the series.

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Reflecting on India’s collapse while chasing 193 on Day 5 at Lord’s, Vengsarkar remarked, “Someone needed to take a risk, and Bumrah tried his best. Jadeja kept the hopes alive for us, but it wasn’t to be. Siraj tried, but you don’t expect your No. 11 to be around for a long time. Jadeja might have been absolutely shattered.” With the loss, England now leads the five-match series 2-1, with the fourth Test scheduled to be played at Old Trafford, Manchester, starting Wednesday, July 23.