'I will play till the time God has written in my destiny' - Jasprit Bumrah stays unfazed by criticism over injury concerns
Indian speedster Jasprit Bumrah delivered a stellar performance on Day 3 of the opening Test against England at Headingley, Leeds, claiming a five-wicket haul. Bumrah revealed that he has always played cricket based on his own belief, despite many doubting his longevity.
The right-arm pacer reflected on his journey, stating that while many had doubted his longevity, believing he would not last more than six to eight months, he is now on the verge of completing ten years in international cricket. With this fifer, the Ahmedabad-born also equalled the legendary Kapil Dev for the most five-wicket hauls by an Indian in away Test matches.
“My idea is that I want to play cricket for India. I have always played cricket on my own belief. All the three formats, I have come to play on my own beliefs. People told me that I won't be able to sustain my career. And when I did, they said, 'you'll play for six months, eight months'. And now I will be completing 10 years in international cricket,” Bumrah said in the press conference after Day 3 at Headingley.
The 31-year-old pacer mentioned that he has been part of the IPL for over a decade and no longer concerns himself with external opinions. He pointed out that he intends to continue playing for as long as it is destined, leaving everything in the hands of God. He emphasized that his focus remains on contributing to Indian cricket and helping take the team to the next level.
“I have been in the IPL for the last 12-13 years. Till today, people keep saying that I will be out (of the team). But let people think whatever, I don't give head to it. I keep doing it every three-four months. I will play till the time God has written in my destiny. I give it my all, and leave everything else to God. Whatever God has given me, I try to take that forward. And take the Indian team to bigger levels,” he added.