Bumrah’s Struggles Continue as MI’s Season Slips Further

Jasprit Bumrah’s difficult run in the Indian Premier League 2026 season continued on Monday night, as the premier fast bowler endured another underwhelming outing for the Mumbai Indians (MI) against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Wankhede Stadium.

Bumrah went wicketless yet again — the seventh time this season — conceding 45 runs in his spell, including 31 in his first two overs during the powerplay. The performance has intensified scrutiny around his form, fitness, and usage by the team management.

Powerplay Woes Set the Tone

Introduced in the second over, Bumrah started without much trouble, conceding 10 runs. However, his second over turned costly and chaotic. A combination of short deliveries, a wide, and a no-ball allowed LSG batters, including Mitchell Marsh, to capitalize. Marsh struck a six and a four, while the no-ball and ensuing free hit added further damage, with 21 runs coming in that over alone.

Bumrah’s struggles with discipline were evident, as he bowled wides and overstepped at crucial moments, preventing him from building pressure or taking early wickets.

Signs of Recovery at the Death

Despite the tough start, Bumrah showed glimpses of his class in the later stages of the innings. Returning in the middle and death overs, he bowled tighter lines and variations, conceding just seven runs in each of his final two overs.

He nearly picked up a wicket when Himmat Singh edged behind, but it was ruled out due to a front-foot no-ball. Against batters like Aiden Markram, Bumrah’s slower deliveries and yorkers proved effective, offering some encouragement.

Calls for a Break Grow Louder

With Bumrah struggling for rhythm and wickets, former players have begun suggesting a possible break. Veda Krishnamurthy emphasized the need for an honest conversation within the MI camp.

She suggested that senior figures like Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma should check whether Bumrah feels mentally and physically ready to continue.

“Ask him if he wants a break for a game or so. If he comes back fresh, you might see a better version of him,” she said.

Questions Over Usage and Strategy

Former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar pointed to tactical issues in how Bumrah has been deployed. He questioned MI’s decision to bowl him in the second and fourth overs rather than giving him more optimal new-ball slots.

“I am a firm believer that you give your best bowler two good overs right at the start — the first and the third,” Bangar said, adding that Bumrah’s average pace of 134 km/h in the match indicated he was trying hard but not finding results.

MI’s Season Reflects Bumrah’s Form

Bumrah’s struggles have mirrored MI’s disappointing campaign. The five-time champions currently sit ninth on the table with just three wins from ten matches, raising the possibility of an early exit.

Bangar suggested that the franchise may need to make a tough call — even if it means resting Bumrah and accepting a lower finish this season.

As pressure mounts, all eyes remain on whether MI back their star pacer through the slump or opt to give him time away to rediscover his rhythm.