England Pacer’s Honest Reaction on Bumrah’s Impact in Test Cricket

England pacer Mark Wood said that despite Jasprit Bumrah's 'genius' he was content playing a limited role with the ball in the first India vs England Test.

The recent India vs. England Test match at Hyderabad, England fast bowler Mark Wood found himself content with a limited role, despite witnessing Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional bowling display. Bumrah, once a player who was sparingly used in Test matches on home soil to manage his workload for overseas contests, has now become an integral part of India’s Test lineup. In the first Test, Bumrah showcased his unparalleled skill, picking up 2 wickets for 28 runs in the first innings and improving on that with an impressive 4 wickets for 41 runs in the second innings.

In the earlier days of Bumrah’s Test career, the team management would strategically rest him during Test matches played in India, ensuring he could deliver his best in overseas conditions. However, times have changed, and Bumrah, coming off a near career-threatening back stress fracture, played a crucial role in the first Test against England, leaving the visitors struggling to formulate plans to dismiss Ollie Pope.

Mark Wood, despite expressing admiration for Bumrah’s genius with the ball, questioned whether the Hyderabad surface was genuinely favorable for pacers. Bumrah bowled a total of 24.4 overs in the match, while Wood, his fast-bowling counterpart, sent down 17 overs in the first innings and eight in the second, failing to secure any wickets. Despite this, Wood remained satisfied, acknowledging the team’s overall stellar performance.

“Bumrah didn’t do me any favours by bowling like a genius. I’m disappointed that I didn’t get any wickets but not really fussed because the team played amazing,” Wood mentioned in an interview with ESPNCricinfo. Wood emphasized the team’s collective effort, acknowledging the stellar performance of debutant Tom Hartley and skipper Joe Root, who even opened the bowling for England in the second innings.

Wood further reflected on the unexpected turn of events, where he ended up bowling just one over in the second innings. He highlighted the trust in the team’s strategy, understanding the shift to spin bowling after his brief stint. Despite not being in the limelight, Wood’s trust in the team’s plan proved justified, as England secured a 28-run victory, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

The Hyderabad Test marked a significant turning point, not only due to Bumrah’s outstanding performance but also because of England’s strategic decisions and the emergence of young talents like Hartley. The victory not only handed England an early series lead but also dealt a blow to India’s quest for a win on home soil, extending their winless streak across the last three Tests. As the series progresses, the dynamics of the player roles and pitch conditions will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the matches.