ENG vs IND 2025: Irfan Pathan questions limited use of Bumrah in Lord’s Test, praises Stokes-Archer

Irfan Pathan

Irfan Pathan said on the defeat in Lord’s Test, India should learn from bowlers like Stokes-Archer.

After India’s 22-run defeat in the third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between England and India, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has questioned the limited use of Jasprit Bumrah. He praised the fitness and dedication of English captain Ben Stokes. Ben Stokes had undergone several surgeries last year, despite this he bowled continuously in the Lord’s Test.

Stokes’ workload is not talked about – Irfan

Irfan Pathan said on his YouTube channel, “Ben Stokes bowled a long spell of 9.2 overs on the morning of the fifth day. He bats, bowls and also makes an important run out of Rishabh Pant. But, there is no talk about his workload. But this is not the case in India.”

Irfan looked unhappy with the use of Jasprit

Irfan Pathan

The former Indian all-rounder expressed disappointment over the limited use of Bumrah and said, “Bumrah bowls five overs, and then waits for Joe Root to come to bat, whereas you have to control the match. His workload was managed because he did not play the Edgbaston Test. But when you are on the field, there is no talk of workload, you have to win the match at any cost.”

It is worth noting that since the announcement of India’s England series, there was a discussion about Bumrah playing in the team. He was rested in the Edgbaston Test after the first Test played in Leeds, which the team management termed as workload management.

Irfan praised Stokes’ bowling style

English captain Ben Stokes bowled consistently in difficult conditions at Lord’s, and contributed significantly to England’s victory with his ‘hit-the-deck’ bowling style. Pathan also praised Jofra Archer, who returned to Test cricket after four years and bowled fast for almost 40 overs and bowled long spells in the second innings.

Irfan Pathan said, “Jofra Archer was playing a Test match after almost four years, but he did not stop. He bowled six overs in the morning and then came back and bowled. Stokes did not think about the workload, if he can bowl nine overs, then why should we stay behind.”

FAQ

What did Irfan Pathan say about Jasprit Bumrah’s usage in the Lord’s Test?

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan questioned the limited use of Jasprit Bumrah during the Lord’s Test, suggesting that India’s premier fast bowler should have been utilized more effectively in the match.

Who did Irfan Pathan praise from the England team?

Pathan praised both Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer for their performances in the Lord’s Test, highlighting their contributions to England’s campaign in the series.

Why is Bumrah’s usage significant in Test matches?

Jasprit Bumrah is considered India’s leading fast bowler and key wicket-taker in Test cricket. His limited usage could impact India’s bowling attack effectiveness, especially in challenging conditions like those at Lord’s.

What makes Irfan Pathan’s opinion noteworthy?

As a former Indian cricketer who played 29 Tests and was known for his bowling and all-round abilities, Pathan’s insights carry weight when analyzing team strategies and player utilization in international cricket.

How does this relate to the broader ENG vs IND 2025 series?

Pathan’s comments reflect ongoing discussions about team selection and tactical decisions that could influence the outcome of the England vs India Test series, particularly regarding bowling strategies at iconic venues like Lord’s.

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