Former India fast-bowling batter Veda Krishnamurthy believes Mumbai Indians should have a straightforward internal discussion with Jasprit Bumrah after the pacer’s difficult stretch in the IPL 2026. Bumrah’s struggles did not ease in the match against Lucknow Super Giants at Wankhede Stadium, where he finished with figures of 0/45 and became wicketless for the seventh time in the season.
Bumrah’s wicket drought and MI’s need to respond
Krishnamurthy argued that the best way forward is for the franchise’s leadership group—coaching staff, captain and vice-captain—to speak to Bumrah directly and understand whether he is fully fit and mentally ready to continue at full intensity.
- Bumrah returned wicketless with 0/45 against Lucknow Super Giants at Wankhede Stadium.
- It was the seventh occasion in IPL 2026 where Bumrah has failed to take a wicket.
- In ten IPL 2026 matches so far, Bumrah has managed only three wickets.
- His current economy rate is above his usual standards, with runs coming at more than 8 per over.
Krishnamurthy’s “honest chat” message to MI
Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Krishnamurthy pointed to the presence of senior voices in the dressing room—management, head coach, captain, and the close support of the leadership group—to ensure the conversation remains candid.
He suggested that the team ask Bumrah questions that help gauge whether he is operating at 100% and whether a short break might help him regain sharpness.
- Krishnamurthy said Mumbai’s thinking should involve the management, coach, and captain, noting Surya is close to Bumrah and Rohit is also around the environment.
- He advised MI to ask Bumrah directly: whether he feels “100% from within.”
- He also recommended asking if Bumrah would want to miss a game or two to come back fresh.
- Krishnamurthy felt such questions would allow Bumrah to respond openly and honestly.
MI still win vs Lucknow with a big chase
Even with Bumrah enduring an off day, Mumbai Indians managed to secure a six-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants. The chase was completed successfully in 18.4 overs as MI reached their target of 229.
The foundation of the successful run chase came from a stand of 143 runs between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton at the top of the order.
- Result: Mumbai Indians won by six wickets.
- Target: 229.
- Chase completion: 18.4 overs.
- Opening partnership: 143 runs.
- Rohit Sharma’s score: 84.
- Ryan Rickelton’s score: 83.
Bangar weighs options for the rest of the tournament
Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar echoed similar concerns, saying the franchise may need to make a decision based on its broader priorities for the remainder of the competition. He framed the issue as a matter of coaching and management judgement—whether the team can afford to play without Bumrah and what the end goal looks like in the league standings.
Bangar suggested that if MI believe they can manage the campaign without him—potentially finishing lower in the table—then Bumrah may choose to step away from the remaining games.
- Bangar said the decision depends on the coach and management’s thinking.
- He discussed the possibility of MI being comfortable playing without Bumrah.
- He also referenced the scenario of the side potentially finishing the season in the lower ranks.
- Bangar concluded that, under such circumstances, Bumrah might take the call on not featuring for the rest of the matches.
Where Bumrah’s numbers stand in IPL 2026
Despite the team’s ability to win despite his wicketless spell, Bumrah’s season figures underline the concern being discussed within cricket circles. Across his first ten IPL 2026 appearances, he has taken just three wickets, and his economy remains higher than what fans expect from him—more than 8 runs per over.
- Three wickets in ten IPL 2026 matches.
- Economy rate: above usual levels, with runs conceded at more than 8 per over.
- Wicketless trend: seven wicketless outings in the season.
