Rohit Sharma on Bumrah’s Workload and the Road Ahead After Adelaide Loss

Adelaide, Australia – December 8: India skipper Rohit Sharma commended Jasprit Bumrah’s standout bowling performance while emphasizing the need for other bowlers to step up, following a 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the Pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval.

Australia’s dominant win, driven by Travis Head’s electrifying century and impactful spells from Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, propelled them back to the top of the WTC 2025 standings.

Reflecting on the match, Rohit acknowledged the importance of shared contributions, stating, “Bumrah won’t always get wickets; others need to rise to the occasion. It’s the same in the batting group—everyone has to take responsibility for success.”

Youngsters Harshit Rana and Nitish Reddy, playing in just their second Test, managed only one wicket between them despite bowling 22 overs. While Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj scalped four wickets apiece, the lack of support from the rest of the attack proved costly.

Rohit highlighted the importance of nurturing emerging players, saying, “They need confidence, and it’s my job as captain to provide that. When they step onto the field, they should feel secure and assured.”

Bumrah delivered an impressive 4-61 across 23 overs in the first innings. Rohit, mindful of the five-Test series ahead, stressed the importance of managing the ace pacer’s workload to keep him effective throughout.

“I regularly check with Bumrah during his spells about how he’s feeling. Managing workloads is crucial over a long series. We can’t expect him to bowl all day from both ends. It’s about smart planning and taking decisions collaboratively,” Rohit explained.

The captain also addressed Mohammed Siraj’s intense exchange with Travis Head, who had played a defining 140-run knock before being bowled out by the pacer. Siraj’s aggression drew criticism, but Rohit defended his bowler, citing the motivational impact of such energy.

“Siraj thrives on battles—it brings out his best. My job is to back his aggression while ensuring we respect the game’s spirit. There’s a fine line, and it’s my responsibility to ensure we don’t cross it,” Rohit stated.

With the series tied at 1-1, the third Test in Brisbane, beginning December 14, promises to be a crucial encounter as both teams seek to gain the upper hand in this fiercely contested series.