Former India cricketer Kris Srikkanth has slammed Mumbai Indians pacer Jasprit Bumrah for bowling below his potential in the IPL 2026. He also advised Bumrah to learn from Rajasthan Royals (RR) pacer Jofra Archer, who has been in top form for his team.
Bumrah has played 8 games for MI but has managed only 2 wickets at an average of 132 and an economy of just shy of 9. The elite bowler has been far from his regular form, taking only two wickets in eight outings and failing to generate the kind of pressure he is known for. His dismal run continued against Sunrisers Hyderabad, as he allowed 54 runs in four overs without taking a wicket.
Srikkanth questioned Bumrah for relying too much on variation with the new ball. He compared the same with Jofra Archer, who is bowling more aggressively with the new ball and attacking more.
"Even Bumrah bowled too many slower ones. You have the new ball with you and two left-handers in front of you. Try to nick them off. Bumrah bowling so many slower deliveries with the new ball is of no use. See what Archer is trying to do in the last few matches. He's bowling at full throttle and nicking batters off caught behind and at slips. That's what Bumrah should try to do," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
Archer has been in terrific form this season for RR, claiming 14 wickets in nine matches and wreaking havoc in the powerplay with the new ball.
What's more noticeable is the Purple Cap race, where the top slots have mostly been held by other pacers, highlighting how far Bumrah has fallen this season. For a bowler of his caliber, the figures paint a unique picture of hardship in an otherwise successful IPL career.
Srikkanth also made a direct criticism of Bumrah's present performance, pointing out that despite his effort, his bowling lacks impact and precision.
"Bumrah is not getting that zip at all. Not one delivery looked threatening. Maybe he is tired, so I am not blaming him. But he is clearly not at his best. He is trying hard but looking very ordinary," he added.
MI have won only 2 games out of 8 matches played and have 4 points to their name in IPL 2026.
