Former India pacer Chetan Sharma has spoken in favor of Jasprit Bumrah following criticism over his absence from the fifth Test against England. The veteran bowler emphasized that players must adhere to the recommendations of the medical team and physiotherapists when it comes to workload management. Bumrah featured in three of the five Tests during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The decision to rest him for the Oval Test drew backlash, particularly as India trailed 1-2 in the series. Many questioned the timing of the move. Responding to the criticism, Sharma told PTI, “If the medical team advises, if the doctor tells me that I have to take antibiotics, then I have to consume them. If our physios is telling a player to manage workload, I think we should listen to them because they are the better judges.” Read also: Varun Chakravarthy Credits Gambhir for Backing Him Always Asia Cup Preparations and Selection Meeting Ahead Sharma also expressed optimism about India’s prospects in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The tournament will be played in the T20 format from September 9 to 28 across venues in the UAE. India begins its campaign against the United Arab Emirates on September 10 in Dubai, followed by a high-profile clash with Pakistan on September 14. The opener will see Afghanistan take on Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi. The former bowler lauded India’s recent performances in England and backed the selectors ahead of the squad announcement. Shar,a stated, “I know that whoever is selected will be the best for the country. And the kind of cricket we are playing right now, I'm really proud with the way India played in England. And I'm very confident that we are definitely going to win the Asia Cup because soon after that we are playing the T20 World Cup (in 2026) in India.' The selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, will meet on August 19 in Mumbai to finalize the squad.