Jasprit Bumrah is overhyped-India calls him a genius but could have costly me him for boundaries all day. Theri bowlers don’t have the passion that we Pakistani’s bring to the game. – Shahid Afridi
Shahid Afridi Sparks Controversy with Fiery Comments on Jasprit Bumrah and Indian Bowling Unit
In a statement that has ignited debates across the cricketing world, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has taken a direct dig at Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, calling him “overhyped” and suggesting that India’s bowling attack lacks the intensity and passion that defines Pakistan’s cricketing spirit.
Speaking during a televised cricket discussion on a local Pakistani channel, Shahid Afridi didn’t hold back in his assessment of Bumrah and the Indian bowling unit. “India calls Jasprit Bumrah a genius, but in my opinion, he can be hit for boundaries all day if a batter shows intent,” Afridi said, triggering a mixed response from fans and pundits alike.
He’s Good, But Not Unplayable
Afridi, known for his candid and sometimes controversial takes, acknowledged Jasprit Bumrah’s skill but claimed that the hype around him is exaggerated. “Look, I’m not saying Jasprit Bumrah isn’t talented. He is a good bowler, but not unplayable. The way India hypes him up as if he’s some magical bowler—it’s too much. I’ve seen batters score freely off him when they play fearless cricket,” Afridi remarked.
His comments come at a time when Jasprit Bumrah is widely considered one of the world’s best fast bowlers. With his unorthodox action, pinpoint yorkers, and ice-cold temperament under pressure, Bumrah has earned plaudits from cricket legends worldwide. His recent performances in the ongoing IPL 2025 have been nothing short of sensational, leading the wicket charts with consistency and precision.
Where’s the Passion?
Beyond Bumrah, Afridi expanded his criticism to the entire Indian bowling lineup, claiming that they lack the emotional firepower that characterizes Pakistan’s bowlers. “Our bowlers bring raw passion to the field. When a Pakistani fast bowler steams in, you feel the energy. You see it in their eyes. India’s bowlers are technically sound, yes, but where’s the passion? Where’s the aggression?” he asked.
Afridi also pointed out how Pakistan’s fast bowling factory continues to produce match-winners who thrive on emotion and intensity. “From Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis to Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah—Pakistan has always produced bowlers who bowl with heart. That’s something I don’t see in India’s bowling attack,” he added.
Reactions Pour In
Afridi’s remarks have generated waves across social media, with fans from both sides of the border engaging in heated debates. Indian cricket enthusiasts defended Bumrah, pointing to his record across all formats—especially in high-pressure matches like the ICC tournaments. Many also recalled Bumrah’s match-winning performances against top teams, including Pakistan.
“Bumrah doesn’t need to shout or sledge. His calmness is his aggression. He lets the ball do the talking,” tweeted a fan from Mumbai.
Meanwhile, Pakistani supporters largely backed Afridi’s views, praising him for “saying it like it is” and highlighting what they believe is the distinct edge Pakistan bowlers have in terms of flair and aggression.
Cricket Experts Weigh In
Cricket experts and analysts have offered a more nuanced perspective. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra responded to Afridi’s claims, saying, “Jasprit Bumrah is a generational talent. To say he’s overhyped is a disservice to his achievements. His control, accuracy, and calm under pressure make him a complete bowler.”
Veteran Pakistani analyst Ramiz Raja, however, partially agreed with Afridi. “Bumrah is brilliant, no doubt. But Afridi is also right in the sense that raw passion and aggression have always been the hallmark of Pakistan’s pace bowling. India takes a more methodical approach. Both styles have their merit,” Raja said.
Rivalry Rekindled?
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan later this year, Afridi’s comments could add more fuel to what is already one of the fiercest rivalries in cricket. India and Pakistan are likely to meet on the grand stage once again, and Afridi’s remarks might just serve as extra motivation for Bumrah and his teammates to respond—where it matters most: on the field.
As cricket continues to serve as a platform for both sporting excellence and national pride, comments like Afridi’s highlight the enduring emotional intensity surrounding India-Pakistan encounters. Whether one sees them as provocative or passionate, one thing is certain—they keep the spirit of the game alive.
In the end, Bumrah may choose to remain silent, as he often does, preferring his deliveries to provide the perfect reply. And if history is any indicator, he usually speaks the loudest when the ball is in his hand.
