‘Really important in this day and age’ – Lockie Ferguson backs Jasprit Bumrah's 'pick and choose' approach [Exclusive]

New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson has praised Jasprit Bumrah’s approach to workload management, stressing the importance of selectively playing matches to maintain fitness amid a busy international calendar. He noted that after Bumrah’s tough injury following the Australia Test series, his strategy provides a strong example for young fast bowlers.

In an exclusive interview with CricTracker, Ferguson highlighted the need to balance on-field performance with long-term body care. He added that while injuries are challenging, a love for bowling fast has consistently driven the determination to return stronger.

Excerpts from the interview

As a fellow pacer, what’s your take on Jasprit Bumrah ‘picking and choosing’ games as part of workload management?

I think it's great. I think it's really important in this day and age. We seem to be playing a lot of cricket. Look, Jasprit Bumrah has had a tough injury last year after the Test matches in Australia. Clearly, he was bowling a lot for his country, trying to win every game for his country. But it does just take its toll on the body. And managing those loads is something very close to me and very important and for all quick bowlers. And I think just for it, it's a very good example for up-and-coming fast bowlers. Obviously, he does very well on the park, but he's learning how to manage his body so he can play as long as he can.

Lockie Ferguson reacts to viral Dhoni leave in 2019 ODI WC

Also Read

Lockie Ferguson reacts to viral Dhoni leave in 2019 ODI WC

You’ve faced a lot of injuries throughout your career. How did you stay motivated and keep coming back stronger each time?

Look, there's a natural want to keep playing. So I think injuries are frustrating and they put you out of the game. But when you're sitting on the couch injured, you tend to watch the TV and wish that you were playing. So the motivation doesn't seem to subside from that. I love bowling quick. I love being part of cricket teams. Travelling the world is a great privilege to play all over the world. So the motivation for me has always been there for that very reason. And yeah, of course, these injuries are tough, but at the same time, that's part of the job.