R Ashwin shuts down Jasprit Bumrah criticism, explains why MI spearhead’s wicketless run isn’t hurting team

Even though Jasprit Bumrah has been wicketless, he has been MI's best bowler this season. Against RCB, he had the best economy among MI bowlers.

Published on: Apr 13, 2026, 07:39:51 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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R Ashwin backed Jasprit Bumrah, pointing out that his lack of wickets lately should not be a cause for concern. Bumrah once again went wicketless as Mumbai Indians crashed to an 18-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday. Chasing a target of 241 runs, MI were restricted to 222/5 in 20 overs despite an unbeaten 31-ball 71* by Sherfane Rutherford. Now, Bumrah also hasn't taken a wicket in his last five IPL matches, which goes back to the second Qualifier last year.

Jasprit Bumrah's wicketless run has seen him bowl 122 balls. (PTI)

His wicketless run has seen him bowl 122 balls. Even though Bumrah has been wicketless, he has been MI's best bowler this season. Against RCB, he had the best economy among MI bowlers.

Also Read: Ravi Shastri goes bonkers after Hardik Pandya hits boundary towards ‘Ravi Shastri stand’ at Wankhede: ‘Aim higher’

"The lack of wickets narrative for Bumrah can hamper the teams cause! Him nailing yorkers and choking the opposition for every single run is even more important than him looking to get wickets, especially in venues like the Wankhede", wrote Bumrah.

"When you can’t bowl overs on the trot, your wicket taking ability depends on your partners who hand the over to you.

"We have had so many years of T 20 cricket now & bowling in partnerships as a defensive group is still a seed in the minds of bowling groups. Malinga nailed it, when he spoke during the 10th over mark", he added.

It is true that Bumrah hasn't received proper support from his teammates. Trent Boult has only taken one wicket so far in this season. There is not a single MI bowler among the top ten wicket-takers this season. MI have only taken 14 wickets in four matches. They also have the worst economy rate and the lowest dot-ball percentage this season.

Reflecting on the team's struggles, MI skipper Hardik Pandya recently said, “I think in the last couple of games, as a bowling unit or even as a batting unit, we've been quite catching up in the game rather than leading the game. We really need to reflect, really need to see what best we can do and how we can get that momentum and that click which we require. We have a couple of days off from here and we will play again.”

Against RCB, MI leaked 71 runs in the powerplay and 53 at the death. They have the second-worst death-bowling record this season. In his last five IPL innings, Bumrah has registered figures of 0/35 (4), 0/32 (3), 0/21 (4), 0/35 (4), 0/40 (4).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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