Irfan Pathan Slams Gautam Gambhir and Bumrah on Workload
The workload management of Indian cricketers has become a heated debate in recent years. With the growing cricket calendar, some argue that resting players is vital for their longevity. Others, however, believe national duty must come first. The case of Jasprit Bumrah has especially divided opinion, as the premier pacer often skips international assignments but remains available for the Indian Premier League.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has now criticized both Bumrah and head coach Gautam Gambhir over the handling of this issue. Speaking on a group call arranged by Sony Sports Network, Irfan Pathan used Australia captain Pat Cummins as an example while questioning India’s approach.
“I just have one thing to say, you would have heard recently that Pat Cummins will skip many games to manage his workload for the Ashes. But will Cummins manage his workload during the Ashes? My question is that only. By all means, manage workload, yes. SENA countries are tough places to go and win. There, your main bowlers must play as many games as they can. During the series, a top series, you will not get the result if you look to manage workload there,” Pathan said.
Pathan stressed that he isn’t against workload management but believes resting players in marquee assignments like the England Test tour is unacceptable.
“About the workload, there has been a lot of talk about it. I feel that there are some important players, Jasprit Bumrah or any other fast bowler, you manage everybody’s workload. You should as well and the set-up has been outstanding from BCCI and NCA. The workload is managed really well,” he added.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir had earlier declared that Bumrah would play only three matches in the England series. That is exactly what happened, leading Pathan to openly question Gambhir’s stance.
Pathan Backs Varun Chakravarthy as India’s X-Factor
When asked about India’s trump card in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, Pathan picked mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy without hesitation.
“You always think all-rounders bring the x-factor but I’ll be excited to actually see how Varun Chakravarthy goes because you must know that there will be a redemption story,” Pathan said.
He recalled Chakravarthy’s underwhelming World Cup 2021 campaign and backed him to bounce back stronger.
“Varun was picked for the World Cup in Dubai which happened in 2021. I don’t think so he did that well at that particular time. My eyes will be on Varun Chakravarthy because he has a lot of confidence and he can definitely come with the x-factor,” Pathan said.
Stay tuned for all the latest Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, Cricket updates, match highlights, player analysis, and viral moments!