India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has come under scrutiny in the ongoing Test series against England—not due to lack of skill, but due to insufficient support from the other end, said India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel.

“You can’t say anything about Bumrah - he’s number one in the world, he’s skilful, but at times, you need help from the other end,” Morkel told reporters in Manchester. He added that bowlers at the non-Bumrah end have often been “a little bit greedy,” leaking runs and releasing the pressure Bumrah builds. This, he explained, dilutes the effectiveness of Bumrah’s probing spells. 

The remarks come amidst concerns over Bumrah’s new-ball wicket drought in Manchester, following England’s sharp start with a 166-run opening stand. Former India bowling heroes like Mohammed Siraj and Anshul Kamboj have been unable to consistently back him. Morkel urged better synergy across the attack, and reaffirmed the importance of building partnerships, especially with strike bowlers like Bumrah.

Despite India’s array of newer pacers and rotation strategies, coach Gautam Gambhir has emphasized that Bumrah must play as per fitness and workload plans. However, with Morkel calling for more balanced bowling support, India’s nightwatchmen face mounting pressure to deliver in the remaining matches.