Photo via The Times of India

Harsh on Bumrah to say he’s picking and choosing matches: Shane Bond

Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond has pushed back against criticism of Jasprit Bumrah, arguing that it is unfair to claim the Indian pacer is selectively choosing which matches to play. Bond emphasized that seasoned bowlers closely monitor their physical limits in consultation with medical and coaching staff, particularly when returning from injury or managing heavy schedules.

The comments come as India and New Zealand navigate a congested international calendar that extends over 40 days, with both nations splitting their squads to prioritize the upcoming Test series. India has excluded Bumrah from the ODI lineup to allow him to focus solely on red-ball cricket, a move Bond supports by noting that actual match time remains superior to net practice for maintaining fitness and intensity ahead of next year's ODI World Cup.

Up nextCricket· 2d ago

Tilak likely to play third India A match; Bumrah leaves for New Zealand