Suryakumar Yadav told to use Jasprit Bumrah wisely during India vs Pakistan in T20 World Cup; ‘he could be used right’

Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar has urged the Indian team management to use Jasprit Bumrah wisely against Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Having missed the first game against United States of America (USA) due to illness, Bumrah returned to the playing XI against Namibia, picking up a wicket.

Bangar's observation came in after Bumrah was used as a fourth change bowler by Suryakumar Yadav against the Namibians, and finishing with figures of 1/20 in his four overs. Usually a new-ball bowler, Suryakumar brough Bumrah into the attack after the powerplay in Delhi. Bangar noted that Bumrah's ability to pick wickets inside the first six overs will help India.

“Wherever you utilise Jasprit Bumrah, he is obviously going to add value," aid the former cricketer to JioStar. "But I feel that he could be used right at the start to try and get early wickets and make early inroads into the opposition. Wickets in the Powerplay count for a lot, especially against stronger opponents like Pakistan. So, I am expecting Bumrah to open the bowling against Pakistan,” added Bangar, who played 27 games for India.