By Parth Dhall | Sep 27, 2025 | 03:57 PM
**What’s the Story?**
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel recently explained the rationale behind using Jasprit Bumrah primarily in the Powerplay during the 2025 T20 Asia Cup. This strategic shift, which has drawn criticism from some quarters, involves deploying Bumrah more in the initial overs as opposed to his usual role in the middle and death overs.
The change has been questioned by several experts, including former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif. Here’s a closer look at how Bumrah has performed in the Powerplay this Asia Cup and the reasoning behind the strategy.
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### Strategy Explained: Why Bumrah is Used in the Powerplay
Speaking after the India-Sri Lanka match, Morne Morkel shed light on the team management’s approach. He explained that they believe the Powerplay is the most effective phase for Bumrah to make early breakthroughs.
“Look, it’s obviously a tough job to bowl in the Powerplay, but Jasprit is one of the best bowlers. And with the new ball, obviously we’re looking to take a wicket,” said Morkel.
He added that this approach eases the pressure later in the innings and complements their strategy of using spinners after the Powerplay overs.
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### Bumrah’s Powerplay Performance in Asia Cup 2025
Traditionally known for his impactful bowling in the death overs, Bumrah usually bowls two of his overs towards the back end of the innings. However, this Asia Cup, he has bowled three overs in the Powerplay in each of his four appearances.
So far, Bumrah has taken three wickets during the Powerplay phase — one each against UAE, Pakistan, and Bangladesh — demonstrating his ability to strike early and set the tone for the team.
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### Wicket-Taking Focus: The Golden Rule in T20 Cricket
Morkel emphasized the importance of taking wickets in T20 cricket, calling it the “golden rule.” He stated, “We know the number one rule or the golden rule in T20 cricket is to take wickets, and if we can do that by using one of our best bowlers and for us to strike upfront, it’s a big advantage.”
He also noted that the strategy is flexible and could be adjusted based on daily assessments of conditions and opposition.
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### Overall Asia Cup 2025 Stats for Bumrah
According to ESPNcricinfo, Jasprit Bumrah has taken five wickets in four matches during the Asia Cup 2025, maintaining an average of 22.00. His economy rate, at 7.33, is slightly higher than his usual standards but remains respectable given the attacking nature of the Powerplay.
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### Did You Know? Bumrah’s Death Over Mastery
While his recent Powerplay role is drawing attention, Bumrah’s reputation as a death-over specialist remains impeccable. ESPNcricinfo stats reveal he has claimed 43 wickets during the last four overs in T20 Internationals, delivering 217 dot balls in this phase.
His economy rate in these crucial final overs stands impressively at 6.86, underlining why he is considered one of the best bowlers in the format.
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As the Asia Cup progresses, all eyes will remain on Bumrah and the evolving bowling strategies India employs to maintain their edge in T20 cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/morkel-reveals-why-jasprit-bumrah-is-being-used-in-powerplay/story