Former India coach Ravi Shastri attributes Jasprit Bumrah’s poor run in IPL 2026 to mental fatigue and says Mumbai Indians need to carefully manage the workload of their opening fast bowler ahead of a busy international calendar.
Bumrah’s struggles continued against Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium where the pacer finished with figures of 0/45. It was the seventh time this season that Bumrah went wicketless.
“Bumrah comes into this IPL after a heavy workload with the Indian team over the last 12 months. His struggles are not just physical. Mental fatigue is a big reason. Mumbai Indians have to look after him. He has a busy schedule over the next two years, with several Test series and the 50-year World Cup coming up.” ‘Waali Champions Commentary’.
Coming into IPL 2026, expectations were naturally high on Bumrah after his stellar performances in the T20 World Cup where he played a key role in India’s successful campaign. The Mumbai Indian has built a reputation over the years for thriving under pressure with his pace, accuracy and control, often changing games unaided for both franchise and country.
However, this season was in stark contrast to the standards Bumrah had set for himself. The pacer has trouble finding a rhythm, escaping at an unusual rate while failing to make regular breakthroughs. In ten matches so far, Bumrah has managed just three wickets, with his economy rate climbing above eight runs per over.
Another concern for Mumbai Indians was Bumrah’s discipline with the ball. The 32-year-old has already bowled eight no-balls this season, including three against Lucknow Super Giants on Monday night. Repeated missteps have only increased the pressure on a side already enduring a tough campaign.
Mumbai Indians’ struggles this season have reflected Bumrah’s dip in form. The five-time champions are currently ninth in the IPL 2026 points table and are running out of opportunities to keep their playoff hopes alive.
For a bowler who rarely has an off-season, IPL 2026 is shaping up to be one of Bumrah’s toughest campaigns yet, and Shastri believes managing both the physical and mental demands could be key for India going forward.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
05 May 2026 16:31 IST
