Jasprit Bumrah, widely regarded as the finest fast bowler in world cricket, signed off from IPL 2026 with a campaign that will be remembered as the most uncharacteristic of his storied career.
The premier speedster managed just 4 wickets across 13 matches for Mumbai Indians, a staggering contrast to his usual dominance with the ball.
His bowling average of 102.50 this season is his worst across the 13 IPL seasons he has played, a number that would seem unthinkable for a bowler of his calibre.
Bumrah entered the tournament carrying a niggle, which affected his pace in the early stages, with his workload carefully managed as he gradually built up his speeds.
The struggles weren’t limited to fitness alone. MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene revealed that Bumrah encountered issues with his run-up this season, resulting in seven front-foot no-balls, the most by any bowler in IPL 2026.
Ironically, the wicket drought came on the back of a sensational T20 World Cup 2026. Bumrah had just finished as joint-highest wicket-taker at the tournament, leading India to their third global T20 crown.
Despite the wicket drought, Bumrah’s economy rate of 8.36 remained respectable, a silver lining in an otherwise forgettable outing. MI finished well outside the playoff spots, and fans will hope their pace spearhead returns to full fitness for future challenges.
