India’s pace ace Jasprit Bumrah tactfully avoided making any controversial remarks on the frequent Dukes ball changes during the second day of the third Test against England at Lord’s, which drew criticism from fans and former cricketers alike.
Early in the day’s play, the Indian team raised concerns over a misshapen ball just 10 overs old. Umpires attempted to pass the ball through the measurement hoop — a standard procedure — but it failed the test, prompting a replacement. Captain Shubman Gill was visibly frustrated, seen having animated discussions with the umpire during and after the ball swap. Merely 48 balls later, the new ball also lost shape and was replaced again. England, too, later asked for a change, but their ball passed inspection and remained in play.
Despite being pressed for a reaction, Bumrah avoided controversy, stating diplomatically: “The ball changes, I don’t really control that… I don’t want to lose out on money because I work very hard and play a lot of overs. So, I don’t want to say any controversial statements and get my match fees deducted… Sometimes it goes your way. Sometimes you get a bad ball. That’s how it is.”
Bumrah let his bowling do the talking, delivering a fiery 5/74 spell under hot London conditions. His spell included the crucial dismissals of Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, and Joe Root, swinging momentum in India’s favour.
During the press conference, Bumrah also responded humorously to teammate Nitish Kumar Reddy’s earlier comments. Reddy had credited Bumrah’s guidance as central to the team’s approach. Bumrah laughed it off: “Sir, first, that answer is a lie. He’s not asked me anything. But these youngsters are very confident. They don’t need a lot of guidance.”
Bumrah added that while he doesn’t impose his methods on younger players, he remains available to share his experiences whenever needed.
“My technique and way of bowling are different. So, it will be different for them. But if they need anything, I try to help to the best of my capacity.”
As India continues to fight for control in the Test, Bumrah remains both the leader of the pace attack and a quiet mentor in the dressing room.
