The back-and-forth between former India batter Mohammad Kaif and star pacer Jasprit Bumrah began during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. Kaif had questioned Bumrah’s “pick and choose” approach after the pacer played only three Tests in the series, citing fitness management.
Kaif also speculated that Bumrah might retire from Test cricket after the series to better manage his workload. While Bumrah remained silent on those remarks, the situation escalated after Kaif raised fresh concerns about India’s bowling strategy heading into the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan.
Kaif’s Comments on Bumrah’s Bowling Spark Viral Exchange
Kaif pointed out that Bumrah has been bowling three consecutive overs in the powerplay, which could leave India vulnerable during the death overs. Under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, Bumrah was usually used in short one-over bursts, but that usage pattern has clearly changed under Suryakumar Yadav in this Asia Cup.
Bumrah’s sharp response to the bowling pattern comment quickly went viral, prompting Kaif to offer clarification and tone down the controversy.
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Kaif Clarifies Stance, Calls Bumrah “India’s Biggest Match-Winner”
Calling Bumrah “India’s biggest match-winner,” Kaif wrote on X on Friday afternoon:
“Please take this as a cricketing observation from a well-wisher and admirer. You are India’s biggest match-winner, and I understand what it takes to give your all while representing the country.”
Jasprit Bumrah will be back in action after the first-ever India vs. Pakistan final in Asia Cup history, which will take place on Sunday, September 28, 2025. India had already beaten Pakistan twice, once in the group stage and once in the Super Four. But this strong win gives Pakistan some momentum going into the final.
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