India’s Fast Bowling in Crisis: What’s Happening Without Bumrah?

Currently, in the Indian team, Bumrah is the only main bowler. If he is unavailable due to injury, there is no bowler who can fill his range. Although Arshdeep is there, he still needs more experience. Harshit Rana is being played more by chance than skill. Even Siraj has not clicked at Bumrah’s range. The absence of genuine 150+ kmph pacers due to injuries, loss of form, or dropping out of the team is worrying for Indian cricket. At the top of the list is Umran Malik (157 kmph). Despite his exceptional pace, he has now disappeared from the team. Similarly, players like Mayank Yadav (156.7 kmph), who made a strong debut, were sidelined due to injuries. Senior pacer Mohammed Shami (153.2 kmph) has been in excellent form after the ODI World Cup, but the team management is not fully considering him. Navdeep Saini (152.8 kmph) lost form and disappeared from the team, while Umesh Yadav (152.5 kmph) is nearing retirement. The situation for young players meant to fill these experienced spots is also not stable. Among young pacers, Shivam Mavi (149.3 kmph) is missing, and Kamlesh Nagarkoti (149 kmph) has been sidelined due to injuries. Young bowlers like Prasidh Krishna (150.6 kmph) and Avesh Khan (147.6 kmph) fail to show consistency. Even if they shine occasionally, they cannot secure a permanent spot in the team. This is particularly concerning for Team India ahead of major tournaments like the World Cup. Given the current scenario, there is doubt whether India has a strong backup pool of fast bowlers. The management urgently needs to provide proper fitness and form guidance to these young pacers to prepare them for international cricket.