India's recent win in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 was full of grit. But even with the celebrations, a new shift seems to be underway in Indian cricket.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar are reportedly moving ahead with a strong message- no more ‘star culture’ in the dressing room.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
At the centre of this shift is senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah, whose workload and availability during the England Test series have sparked internal debate.
Why is Jasprit Bumrah’s position being discussed now?
Bumrah featured in only three of the five Tests against England, and his spot in the XI wasn’t confirmed until close to the toss each time.
As per a recent report, his inability to play consistently across all five matches has raised questions inside the BCCI. There is concern that his body may not be holding up to the demands of a full-length Test series.
The issue seems to have also sparked scrutiny over the Centre of Excellence’s fitness management in Bengaluru.
READ: Dig at Kohli? Pathan's cryptic message leaves fans guessing
BCCI officials reportedly aren’t happy with how player fitness is being monitored or communicated, especially when it affects India’s most high-profile players.
What is the new approach BCCI is considering?
A Press Trust of India (PTI) report suggests that Gambhir and Agarkar are on the verge of finalising a stricter plan.
Under this, centrally contracted players will not be allowed to pick and choose games at will.
This is being positioned as a major change from previous years, where players sometimes sat out of certain matches under the label of "workload management."
MORE: India's 10 greatest Test wins abroad
"There have been discussions and the message will be sent across to the centrally contracted players, especially those who are all format regulars that this culture of picking and choosing games won't be entertained in near future," a senior BCCI official said.
That said, fast bowlers like Bumrah will still have their workloads monitored. But the leeway to skip matches, especially important ones, will now require stronger justification.
"It doesn't mean that workload management will be thrown out of the window but a more objective approach is expected in near future. Obviously, fast bowlers' workload needs to be managed but it can't be accepted that in the name of workload management, people will miss crucial matches," he added.
MORE: Can Joe Root break Sachin Tendulkar's Test run tally?
Siraj's efforts in the England series have reportedly influenced this call. He bowled long spells, stayed fit through all five Tests, and played a key role in India’s narrow win at The Oval.