Gqeberha, South Africa, Feb 5 (PTI) – Former South African fast bowler Vernon Philander has praised India's Jasprit Bumrah for setting high standards for pacers globally, but emphasized the need for careful workload management to ensure the star bowler remains injury-free.
In a recent media interaction on the sidelines of the SA20 tournament, Philander reflected on Bumrah's remarkable skill set and the impact he’s had on the game. "I think he [Bumrah] has really set the standard high. His ability to adjust his pace and his overall skill is just phenomenal," said Philander. "But with the heavy international calendar, India has to manage his workload carefully."
Philander, who has taken 224 wickets in 64 Tests for South Africa, noted that India's packed fixture list can take a toll on players. He urged Indian management to be strategic in their use of Bumrah, ensuring that the bowler is available for key series and major tournaments while avoiding burnout.
“It’s important not to overuse him,” Philander advised. “With the IPL coming up, you want a player like Bumrah to be available for most of the games, but how do you manage him throughout the season? Maybe look at giving other bowlers a chance in less critical matches and saving him for the key fixtures.”
The 39-year-old, who also serves as a commentator, acknowledged the inherent challenge for bowlers. "As a bowler, you always want to play. There are records to be broken and you want to be on the field," he admitted, noting the internal drive that can sometimes clash with the need for caution.
With a view toward the upcoming Champions Trophy, Philander highlighted the broader issue of workload management for bowlers, particularly in light of the increasing number of global leagues. He stressed that fitness trainers and physios will play a pivotal role in determining how much workload is sustainable for players. “With leagues popping up everywhere, you only have so many balls in your body. It's crucial to conserve energy for the right moments in high-stakes tournaments like the Champions Trophy,” he said.
Looking ahead to future cricket leagues, Philander also expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Virat Kohli participating in South Africa's SA20 tournament. “Suryakumar would be right up there. Bumrah’s skill set would be phenomenal on these wickets. And then, of course, Kohli, who has built such a massive name for himself,” he said.
Philander also praised Dinesh Karthik, who became the first Indian player to join the SA20, saying that young cricketers can learn a lot from Karthik’s vast IPL experience. "Youngsters like Lhuan Dre Pretorious could benefit immensely from having someone like Karthik in the dressing room,” he added.
As for his predictions for the upcoming Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan and the UAE starting February 19, Philander named India, South Africa, Australia, and England as the top contenders. "India is a big contender playing in the sub-continent. Australia always performs well in big events. South Africa’s confidence from the T20 World Cup and England’s strong squad make them a real threat," he said.
Reflecting on the growth of T20 cricket in South Africa, Philander credited the SA20 league for its role in the resurgence of the game in the country. “Graeme Smith and his team have done a fantastic job. The competition has been a lot closer, and we've seen several young players really step up this year. The T20 league has been much-needed to expose young talent," he said.
Philander concluded by noting that South Africa’s strong performances in international cricket, including reaching the World Test Championship final and playing in the T20 World Cup final, have provided a significant boost to the nation's cricketing landscape.
In a recent media interaction on the sidelines of the SA20 tournament, Philander reflected on Bumrah's remarkable skill set and the impact he’s had on the game. "I think he [Bumrah] has really set the standard high. His ability to adjust his pace and his overall skill is just phenomenal," said Philander. "But with the heavy international calendar, India has to manage his workload carefully."
Philander, who has taken 224 wickets in 64 Tests for South Africa, noted that India's packed fixture list can take a toll on players. He urged Indian management to be strategic in their use of Bumrah, ensuring that the bowler is available for key series and major tournaments while avoiding burnout.
“It’s important not to overuse him,” Philander advised. “With the IPL coming up, you want a player like Bumrah to be available for most of the games, but how do you manage him throughout the season? Maybe look at giving other bowlers a chance in less critical matches and saving him for the key fixtures.”
The 39-year-old, who also serves as a commentator, acknowledged the inherent challenge for bowlers. "As a bowler, you always want to play. There are records to be broken and you want to be on the field," he admitted, noting the internal drive that can sometimes clash with the need for caution.
With a view toward the upcoming Champions Trophy, Philander highlighted the broader issue of workload management for bowlers, particularly in light of the increasing number of global leagues. He stressed that fitness trainers and physios will play a pivotal role in determining how much workload is sustainable for players. “With leagues popping up everywhere, you only have so many balls in your body. It's crucial to conserve energy for the right moments in high-stakes tournaments like the Champions Trophy,” he said.
Looking ahead to future cricket leagues, Philander also expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Virat Kohli participating in South Africa's SA20 tournament. “Suryakumar would be right up there. Bumrah’s skill set would be phenomenal on these wickets. And then, of course, Kohli, who has built such a massive name for himself,” he said.
Philander also praised Dinesh Karthik, who became the first Indian player to join the SA20, saying that young cricketers can learn a lot from Karthik’s vast IPL experience. "Youngsters like Lhuan Dre Pretorious could benefit immensely from having someone like Karthik in the dressing room,” he added.
As for his predictions for the upcoming Champions Trophy, to be held in Pakistan and the UAE starting February 19, Philander named India, South Africa, Australia, and England as the top contenders. "India is a big contender playing in the sub-continent. Australia always performs well in big events. South Africa’s confidence from the T20 World Cup and England’s strong squad make them a real threat," he said.
Reflecting on the growth of T20 cricket in South Africa, Philander credited the SA20 league for its role in the resurgence of the game in the country. “Graeme Smith and his team have done a fantastic job. The competition has been a lot closer, and we've seen several young players really step up this year. The T20 league has been much-needed to expose young talent," he said.
Philander concluded by noting that South Africa’s strong performances in international cricket, including reaching the World Test Championship final and playing in the T20 World Cup final, have provided a significant boost to the nation's cricketing landscape.
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