Sunil Gavaskar criticized the use of "workload management" in Indian cricket, praising Mohammed Siraj’s stamina in the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. He urged players to prioritize national duty over minor injuries.
During the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, India drew the series 2-2 against England. Mohammed Siraj’s standout performance, especially at The Oval, earned him Player of the Match honors.
Siraj bowled 185.3 overs across all five Tests, taking 23 wickets. His relentless effort, including a five-wicket haul, was crucial in India’s thrilling six-run win at The Oval.
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace leader, played only three Tests—Leeds, Lord’s, and Manchester—due to injury concerns. India lost the first two but drew the third, rotating other bowlers.
Siraj’s consistency stood out. Unlike others, he played every match, bowling long spells of 6 to 8 overs, showing remarkable endurance and commitment to the team’s cause.
Sunil Gavaskar praised Siraj’s effort, arguing that “workload” is a mental barrier, not physical. He believes players should push through minor pains to serve their country.
Gavaskar highlighted Siraj’s dedication, noting he bowled tirelessly because his captain and country expected it. He called for removing “workload” from India’s cricket vocabulary.
He compared cricketers to soldiers, saying jawans don’t complain about harsh conditions. Players should ignore small injuries and embrace the honor of representing India.
Gavaskar cited Rishabh Pant’s example, who batted with a fracture. He urged players to show similar grit, emphasizing the privilege of playing for India among 140 crore people.
He clarified that his remarks weren’t aimed at Bumrah, whose absence was due to a serious injury, not workload management. Bumrah took two five-wicket hauls in his Tests.
Bumrah’s impact was significant despite limited appearances. Gavaskar acknowledged his skill, noting that injury, not choice, restricted his participation in the series.
Gavaskar warned that workload management risks keeping top players off the field. This can disrupt team balance, especially in overseas series with limited reserve options.
At home, calling up replacements is easier, but abroad, teams need their best players. Gavaskar stressed that national duty should outweigh concerns about minor aches.
Siraj’s performance debunked workload concerns, Gavaskar said. His ability to bowl consistently across five Tests showed that mental strength can overcome physical fatigue.
The series draw highlighted India’s resilience. Siraj’s leadership in bowling, especially without Bumrah, proved crucial in securing the competitive 2-2 result against England.
Gavaskar’s call to end workload management sparks debate. His praise for Siraj’s grit and criticism of cautious approaches may shape future team selection strategies.
