When it comes to India's pace bowling unit, Jasprit Bumrah stands out as the premier fast bowler. Known for his deadly accuracy and unique action, Bumrah has been the cornerstone of India’s bowling attack in recent years.

Yet, despite his individual brilliance, Team India’s overall performance with him in the side has raised questions — especially when compared to their record in his absence.

A closer look at the last 9 Test matches featuring Bumrah paints a worrying picture for India. The team managed to win only 2 out of those 9 Tests, with 1 ending in a draw and 6 ending in defeats.

In the 5-match series against Australia, India lost 3 matches, drew 1, and won just 1.

Against New Zealand, Bumrah featured in 2 matches, both of which India lost.

He also played one match against Bangladesh, which India won.

Most recently, India suffered a defeat in the Leeds Test, where Bumrah was part of the XI.

Despite Bumrah’s consistent performances with the ball, the team has often failed to convert those into victories, sparking debate about whether his presence alone is enough to swing matches in India's favor.

India Thrive Without Bumrah

Interestingly, the numbers tell a different story when Bumrah is not part of the playing XI. Since his Test debut in 2018, Bumrah has played 46 Tests, during which India has:

Won: 20 matches

Lost: 22 matches

Drawn: 4 matches

However, in the 27 Tests played without Bumrah in this time frame:

India won: 19 matches

Lost: Only 5

Drawn: 3

This stark contrast suggests that the Indian team has found ways to adapt and succeed even without their pace spearhead. The rise of other pacers and improved overall team combinations could be contributing factors.

As India prepares for the high-stakes Lord’s Test, these statistics raise a compelling question — has Team India learned how to win without relying on Jasprit Bumrah? The numbers seem to suggest so.

As India prepares for the high-stakes Lord’s Test, these statistics raise a compelling question — has Team India learned how to win without relying on Jasprit Bumrah? The numbers seem to suggest so.