Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra reckons Jasprit Bumrah’s four overs are the most invaluable for Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2026. Bumrah is known to deliver at both ends of the innings and he has performed consistently over the years for the five-time champions.
Meanwhile, Bumrah returned with impressive figures of 4-15 in his quota of four overs and was awarded Player of the Match after India registered a comprehensive 96-run win over the Kiwis in the T20 World Cup final.
The gun fast bowler took 14 wickets in the tournament at an average of 12.43 and a splendid economy rate of 6.21, which was the best for any bowler. The ace pacer was able to outfox the New Zealand batters with his slower deliveries in the summit clash at Ahmedabad.
Aakash Chopra said as quoted by JioStar,, “If your name is Jasprit Bumrah, the pressure comes automatically. He is that kind of bowler. He creates an impact in every game, guarantees you a wicket, and restricts the opposition. That responsibility brings a lot of pressure because his four overs are the most precious thing for MI. Bowl one over in the powerplay, keep one for the middle phase, and two at the death.
“That is Bumrah — that pressure is not going anywhere. Whether Boult bowls well or Deepak Chahar is fully fit, Bumrah’s pressure stays with him. But if Boult is fit, MI will want to continue with him. Fit, available, in form. They will want the new ball to move around a little with Boult and Deepak Chahar.
The renowned commentator added that Shardul Thakur is a capable replacement for Deepak Chahar but feels the former is not guaranteed selection ahead of the former.
“Shardul Thakur is a capable replacement for Chahar, but it does not necessarily mean that he plays ahead of him. A fit Deepak Chahar, a fit Trent Boult, Bumrah, and Hardik Pandya will be MI’s four starting pacers. Corbin Bosch is waiting in the wings. He is a very good all-rounder. But again, you cannot play all overseas players,” Chopra added.
Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium on 29th March.
