Mumbai: Mumbai Indians have backed their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah despite his surprising wicketless run in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season. The franchise’s head coach Mahela Jayawardene has attributed Bumrah’s lack of wickets to the team’s overall bowling performance rather than any individual dip in form.
Bumrah, widely regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers in world cricket, is yet to pick up a wicket after five matches this season—a rare occurrence in his otherwise stellar IPL career.
Team struggles, not individual form
Addressing concerns over Bumrah’s performance, Jayawardene dismissed suggestions that the pacer is going through a rough phase. Instead, he pointed to Mumbai Indians’ inability to create pressure during the powerplay as a key factor behind the issue.
According to the coach, opposition batters have been able to play Bumrah cautiously due to the lack of early breakthroughs from the other end. Without scoreboard pressure, teams have avoided taking risks against Bumrah, reducing his wicket-taking opportunities.
Jayawardene noted that while Bumrah continues to bowl well, the overall bowling unit has struggled to deliver consistent penetration across different conditions.
Powerplay woes hurting Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians’ difficulties in the powerplay have been evident despite having experienced bowlers like Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult in the lineup. The lack of early wickets has allowed opposition teams to settle in, making it harder for bowlers in the middle and death overs to make an impact.
Jayawardene admitted that the team has experimented with different strategies but is yet to find a consistent solution. He emphasised that improving their powerplay performance remains a priority going forward.
Backing Bumrah to bounce back
Despite the unusual dry spell, the Mumbai Indians camp remains confident in Bumrah’s abilities. Jayawardene expressed belief that once the pacer breaks his wicket drought, he could quickly regain his rhythm and become a dominant force again.
He added that the responsibility cannot rest solely on Bumrah’s shoulders, highlighting the need for the entire bowling unit to step up collectively. The coach stressed that cricket is a team sport, and success depends on coordinated efforts rather than individual brilliance.
Injuries and inconsistency add to woes
Jayawardene also revealed that injuries and illnesses within the squad have disrupted team combinations, preventing the franchise from fielding a consistent playing XI. This has further compounded Mumbai Indians’ struggles, especially in the bowling department.
With four consecutive losses after winning their opening match, Mumbai Indians currently find themselves in a difficult position in the IPL 2026 standings. The team’s inability to execute plans effectively and maintain pressure on opponents has been a recurring issue.
A crucial phase ahead
As the tournament progresses, Mumbai Indians will need to address their bowling concerns urgently to keep their playoff hopes alive. While Bumrah’s wicketless run has drawn attention, the broader issue lies in the team’s collective performance.
Conclusion
Mumbai Indians’ defence of Jasprit Bumrah underlines their faith in one of their most reliable performers. While the numbers may not reflect his usual impact, the franchise believes the pacer is still bowling effectively.
For Mumbai Indians, the path to recovery will depend on improving their powerplay efficiency and supporting Bumrah with stronger performances from the rest of the bowling unit. If the team manages to regroup, Bumrah’s return to form could play a decisive role in turning their campaign around.