IPL 2026: Why Jasprit Bumrah Is Struggling For Wickets? R Ashwin Shares Honest Verdict

One of the biggest talking points of IPL 2026 so far has been the surprising form of Mumbai Indians' star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Known for his deadly yorkers and match-winning spells, Bumrah has shockingly gone wicketless in multiple matches this season.

For a bowler who is widely considered one of the best in the world, this kind of dry run has raised serious questions among fans and experts alike.

Bumrah’s Unusual Wicketless Streak Explained

Jasprit Bumrah has now gone wicketless in five consecutive IPL matches, a rare and unexpected stat in his career. This streak has even extended across two seasons, making it one of the longest wicketless runs he has ever faced in the tournament.

According to available match data, Bumrah has bowled over 120 deliveries without picking up a single wicket. Despite this, he has continued to play a key role in Mumbai Indians' bowling attack.

  • 0/40 vs PBKS
  • 0/35 vs KKR
  • 0/21 vs DC
  • 0/32 vs RR
  • 0/35 vs RCB

This clearly shows that while wickets are missing, Bumrah is still contributing in terms of control and consistency.

R Ashwin Defends Bumrah Strongly

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out in support of Bumrah and believes that judging him only on wickets is completely unfair.

Ashwin explained that Bumrah’s real value lies in his ability to control runs, especially in high-scoring games where every run matters.

"The lack of wickets narrative for Bumrah can hurt the team. His job is to bowl tight yorkers and stop runs, which is equally important."

This statement highlights an important aspect of modern T20 cricket — impact is not always measured in wickets.

The Role Bumrah Plays in Mumbai Indians Team

In T20 cricket, especially in high-scoring venues like Wankhede Stadium, bowlers often have different roles. Bumrah is usually given the responsibility of bowling in pressure situations like powerplay and death overs.

These are phases where batters attack the most, making it harder for bowlers to take wickets.

Instead, Bumrah focuses on:

  • Bowling accurate yorkers
  • Restricting boundary flow
  • Building pressure from one end

This often helps other bowlers pick wickets from the opposite end.

Why Wickets Are Not Coming?

There are several reasons behind Bumrah’s lack of wickets in IPL 2026:

  • Team Strategy: Bumrah is used as a defensive bowler rather than an attacking option
  • Flat Pitches: High-scoring surfaces make it difficult for bowlers to dominate
  • Partnership Bowling: Wickets depend on how other bowlers perform at the other end
  • Batters’ Approach: Teams play him cautiously, avoiding risks

These factors combined explain why Bumrah is not picking wickets despite bowling well.

Performance Still Valuable For MI

Even though wickets are missing, Bumrah has not been ineffective. In fact, in some matches, he has been the most economical bowler for Mumbai Indians.

In a high-scoring game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where MI conceded 240 runs, Bumrah still managed to keep things relatively tight compared to other bowlers.

This proves that his contribution goes beyond just wickets.

What Mumbai Indians Need To Fix

Mumbai Indians are currently struggling in IPL 2026, and their bowling unit has not been consistent.

Experts believe that Bumrah needs better support from other bowlers so that pressure can be maintained from both ends.

If the team manages to build partnerships in bowling, Bumrah’s wicket-taking ability is likely to return.

Fans Reaction And Social Media Debate

Bumrah’s wicketless run has triggered a big debate on social media. While some fans are concerned, others believe it is just a temporary phase.

Cricket experts have also pointed out that even the best bowlers go through such periods, and it does not define their overall quality.

Conclusion

Jasprit Bumrah’s wicketless streak in IPL 2026 may look shocking at first, but a deeper analysis shows that he is still playing a crucial role for Mumbai Indians.

As Ravichandran Ashwin explained, focusing only on wickets does not give the full picture. Bumrah’s control, experience, and ability to handle pressure situations continue to make him one of the most valuable players in T20 cricket.

If Mumbai Indians improve as a unit, it is only a matter of time before Bumrah returns to his wicket-taking best.