Sunil Gavaskar backs Jasprit Bumrah to play the remaining three Test matches against Australia

Legendary Sunil Gavaskar wants Jasprit Bumrah to play the rest of the three Test matches against Australia. India suffered a 10-wicket loss against the Aussies in the second pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval as the hosts bounced back in the series after losing the opening game.

Bumrah returned with impressive figures of 4-61 in the 23 overs he bowled in the first innings of the second Test and he was once again the pick of the Indian bowlers.

However, in the first innings, Bumrah seemed to have pulled up his abductor but continued to bowl. But Bumrah bowled a solitary over in the second innings when Australia needed only 19 runs to win.

Bumrah had returned with figures of 8-72 in the opening Test match at Perth and thus bagged Player of the Match.

Speaking to broadcasters, Sunil Gavaskar said, “I would like him to play all 5 Test matches. You’re playing for India, there is no question about workload and stuff like that. He has to play all 5 Test matches unless he is injured. This match finished in 2 and a half days. This hasn’t gone for 5 days. So the man gets 5 days of break.”

“If he has a problem or an injury, then yes. But if he doesn’t have an injury. You have been giving 4-over, 5-over spells. That is perfect. That’s the way to go, unless you have taken a wicket or two. If you take a wicket in your 5th over, give him a 6th one.”

The Little Master added India will find it tough to skittle out Australia twice if Jasprit Bumrah doesn’t play.

“He is your battering ram. If you’re not going to play him in all 5 matches, you reduce your chance of taking 20 Australian wickets. How he is used is up to the captain. He has to be used in such a way that he is effective each time he comes to bowl,” said Gavaskar.

The third Test match between India and Australia will be played at the Gabba, Brisbane from December 14.