It Is Not Just For Bumrah: Indian Coach On Workload Management & Playing XI For Lord’s

Ahead of the highly anticipated third Test against England at Lord’s, India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, shed light on the team’s comprehensive approach to pacers’ workload management. He stressed that this vital strategy extends beyond just spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, encompassing all bowlers due to their individual fitness concerns and unique issues.

Following Mohammed Siraj’s stellar seven-wicket haul, including a six-wicket burst in the first innings at Edgbaston, and Akash Deep’s impressive ten-wicket performance, Team India is eagerly awaiting Jasprit Bumrah’s return for the Lord’s fixture. Skipper Shubman Gill confirmed Bumrah’s inclusion after the second Test victory, hinting at the thrilling prospect of a pace trio featuring Siraj, Bumrah, and Akash Deep.

During the pre-match press conference, Kotak explained the nuanced philosophy: “Workload management is not applicable only to Bumrah. Every bowler’s fitness and every bowler’s issues are different. We cannot think that we are thinking the same for one person, and he is thinking the same for everyone. But I think there was enough rest in between (between the first and second Test). After this match, the turnaround is less.”

Kotak lauded Siraj as a bowler “who bowls a lot” and clarified that the bowling coach, Morne Morkel, along with the strength and conditioning coach, closely monitors the bowlers’ workload. He further added, “But if they feel somebody requires rest, obviously, the bowler will also know. The bowler will also know that I require rest.” This indicates a collaborative approach where the bowlers’ self-assessment plays a crucial role in managing their physical demands.

Workload management is certainly important for everyone.