Jasprit Bumrah's bowling in the ongoing Manchester Test has sparked questions about his long-term role in the Indian Test side. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes the 31-year-old pacer may be nearing the end of his red-ball career due to persistent fitness struggles.
Bumrah appeared far from his best at Old Trafford. His speeds were down and his physical condition under scrutiny after he briefly left the field.
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While India's bowling coach Morne Morkel insisted Bumrah was not injured, Kaif saw enough to express concern about the pacer's red-ball future.
What did Mohammad Kaif say about Jasprit Bumrah's retirement?
Kaif pointed out Bumrah's dip in pace and effectiveness. He suggested that the pacer's body is no longer able to cope with the demands of Test cricket.
Speaking in a video posted on his X handle, the former batter claimed Bumrah might soon make a decision to step away on his own terms.
"I think Jasprit Bumrah may not be seen playing in the upcoming Test matches, and he may even retire. He is struggling with his body, is bowling slow, and did not show any speed in this Test match. He is an independent person. If he feels he can't give 100%, can't win matches or take wickets, then he will himself refuse. That's my gut feeling," said Kaif.
Bumrah's unorthodox bowling action has long raised concerns about injuries. His pace has dropped significantly in Manchester; he touched 140 kph just once, in contrast to 80+ deliveries over that mark earlier in the series.
Bumrah to retire from tests? pic.twitter.com/PnMR2y6oEi
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 26, 2025
He ended Day 3 with figures of 1 for 80 in 24 overs. Though Morkel later clarified that Bumrah had rolled his ankle slightly while descending stairs, it was another reminder of how little room for physical error the pacer has left.
Is Bumrah retiring from Tests in 2025 after Kohli and Rohit Sharma?
Kaif concluded by highlighting the broader context of transition in Indian cricket. He noted the recent Test exits of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and R. Ashwin.
"First, Virat Kohli, then Rohit Sharma went, and Ashwin is not there. Now, maybe Bumrah also. I think you will have to get used to watching Test matches without him," he concluded.
Whether or not a formal decision comes soon, the signs from Manchester suggest India may need to start planning for a Test future without one of its finest modern pacers.