Jasprit Bumrah has found himself in an unusual phase this IPL season, a rare dip in form for a bowler of his calibre and consistency. Widely regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers across formats in modern cricket, Bumrah has struggled to replicate his usual dominance following the high of India’s T20 World Cup success.
In eight matches so far, he has managed just two wickets, and the trademark pressure he usually builds on batters has largely been absent. Opposing teams, who once approached him with extreme caution, now appear more willing to attack him, reflecting a noticeable shift in momentum. His economy rate of 8.80 may not appear alarming on paper, but it is below the elite standards he has consistently maintained throughout his career.
The pacer endured another difficult outing against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday, going wicketless and conceding 54 runs in his four overs—the most by any bowler in the match. The performance once again brought his current form under the spotlight.
Mumbai Indians batting coach Kieron Pollard, however, came out in support of Bumrah, urging perspective and balance when assessing the star pacer’s performances.
“When a cricketer is not doing well, we look at every single aspect as to why he’s not doing well. And there’s no difference to Jasprit Bumrah. He has done this for years. As a human being, he is entitled to have a bad day, a bad season, or a bad couple of months. We need to remember the good things he has done. Yes, we live in the present and he hasn’t been up to mark, but he’s still been a number one bowler for Mumbai Indians and India over a long period,” Pollard said after the match.
Pollard also highlighted the intense scrutiny cricketers face, noting that failures are magnified in public view while successes are often taken for granted.
“I just feel sometimes we can cut some slack to cricketers. When we do bad, it is highlighted, but in normal jobs mistakes can be corrected quietly. We don’t get that luxury. So when you are not doing well, you accept it,” he added.
Despite the current lean patch, Pollard remained confident about Bumrah’s comeback, backing him to return stronger.
“Knowing him, I know he is going to bounce back with greater heights. He will take wickets again, and we will all be singing his praises for Mumbai Indians and India. So let’s give him a bit of space,” he concluded. (Agency)
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