Jasprit Bumrah’s Fitness Secret: What He Quit to Keep Bowling Fast

Jasprit Bumrah has become India’s answer to the many legendary fast bowlers their rivals have produced over the years. Right from the time he burst onto the scene, his unusual bowling action caught everyone’s eye.

The incredible hyperextension of his arm allows him to generate late swing, making life tough for even the best batters. But as former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun recalls, that same action was putting a huge strain on Jasprit Bumrah’s body. That is when a plan was put into place that changed the course of his career.

"India Can Win Without Bumrah": Monty Panesar Made A Bold Claim

A Young Jasprit Bumrah at the NCA

“A lot of things have been said about the fitness culture of Virat Kohli. Jasprit Bumrah is no less. In 2013, Bumrah had come to the NCA for an Under-19 camp and pitched for selection. He couldn’t make the team, but he was in the 30-member camp at the National Cricket Academy,” Bharat Arun said in an interview with TOI.

The Attempt to Remodel His Action

Arun explained that they even thought about tweaking Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling style. “In all fairness, we also tried to change Jasprit Bumrah’s action. He was remodeled, but then the action was great, the ball was not going quick. What’s the point in having a great action if the balls aren’t effective?” he said.

Recognizing Jasprit Bumrah’s natural ability, the team decided not to tamper with it too much. “He could bowl quick, and so we discussed with the physio and the strength and conditioning coach. We said, I wouldn’t want to touch his action because it’s very unique and generates a lot of pace. But it also puts him under stress.”

Building the Fast-Bowling Machine

That was when the support staff decided to create a special plan just for him.

“We called him and told him: to take the impact of fast bowling, you need to be like a bull. That comes down to diet, exercise, and sacrifices. In all fairness, Bumrah instantaneously changed. He started eating healthy, he was working in the gym. Like Virat Kohli, he was extremely dedicated. He loved burgers, pizzas, milkshakes. He gave up everything overnight. A Punjabi boy living in Gujarat-but his love for bowling was greater than any food craving,” Arun revealed.