“We tried changing his…”: Bharat Arun on This unique bowling style and discipline

Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun praise on Jasprit Bumrah, calling him a true professional whose hard work and discipline make him one of the best bowlers across all formats. Arun revealed that Bumrah’s rise as India’s premier fast bowler is not just about his skills on the field but also about the sacrifices he made off it.

He recalled how Bumrah once decided to give up his favourite junk food overnight, showing the level of commitment he had toward improving his game and fitness.

“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,” Arun said on the latest episode of Bombay Sport.

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Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling action has always stood out for its uniqueness and effectiveness. With his short, stuttering run-up and explosive, whippy release, Bumrah manages to generate pace without relying on a long stride or high jump. Instead, he uses his hyperextended arm, quick wrist snap, and front-on action to deliver both accuracy and deception. His slightly lower, angled release makes it even harder for batters to pick the ball early.

Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun also revealed that there was a time when the support staff considered making changes to Bumrah’s action. However, they eventually decided against it, realizing that his unusual style was actually his biggest strength.

“In all fairness, we also tried to change 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 could bowl quick, and so we had a discussion 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.”

Arun revealed how Bumrah responded to the challenge: “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, and he was working out in the gym. Like Virat Kohli, he was extremely dedicated. He loved burgers, pizzas, and milkshakes.

Jasprit Bumrah last played in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, where he featured in three out of five Tests to manage his workload. The star pacer is now ready to make his comeback for India in the Asia Cup 2025.