Sachin Tendulkar puts full stop to 'India win when Jasprit Bumrah doesn't play' narrative: ‘People are discussing…’

Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has come out in strong support of India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, putting to rest the growing narrative that India only wins when the star fast bowler is not in the playing XI. Tendulkar’s timely remarks follow India's recent 2-2 Test series draw against England in the much-talked-about Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, where Bumrah featured in three of the five matches.
Bumrah’s Performance Under the Lens
During the series, Bumrah played three Tests, resting out of two due to workload management. Despite limited appearances, he made a significant impact, claiming 14 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls at Headingley and Lord’s. However, questions were raised as India lost both Tests in which he featured, leading to claims that India performs better in his absence.
Critics pointed fingers at Bumrah’s inability to deliver in the second innings of the matches. At Headingley, while his first-innings five-for was commendable, he went wicketless in the second as England chased down 371. At Lord’s, he once again shined in the first innings but took only two wickets in the second, and India slumped to defeat.
Tendulkar Calls Out the Flawed Narrative
In a video analysis shared on Reddit, Tendulkar dismantled the claims.
“Bumrah started off really well, got five wickets in the (first innings of the) first Test. He did not play the second Test, but (played in) the third and the fourth. Again, in (one of) those two Tests, he got (a) five wickets (haul),” he pointed out.
Tendulkar emphasized that India’s wins without Bumrah were mere coincidence, not a reflection of his performance.
“I know that people are discussing a number of things, that we won those Tests in which he did not play. To me, that is just a coincidence," he stated firmly.
"Quality of Bumrah is Exceptional"
The Master Blaster went on to heap praise on Bumrah, highlighting his consistency and match-winning abilities over the years.
“The quality of Bumrah is exceptional. What he has been able to do is just unbelievable so far. He has been a consistent performer without any doubt (and) I would put him right at the top with anyone else,” Tendulkar added.
Setting the Record Straight
As social media debates heat up and opinions swirl, Tendulkar’s voice offers a balanced, fact-based perspective. Bumrah’s ability to deliver under pressure and his unique bowling style remain invaluable to India’s cricketing arsenal. With Tendulkar backing his credentials, the team and fans alike can be assured that Bumrah remains a key pillar in India’s Test strategy, regardless of misleading narratives.