Things are not going well for Mumbai Indians. They have played four, won one, and the losses have been devastating. But as their fans would say, that's their style: start slow, lose matches, and pick up steam as the season goes on. The cues are on point, as for the fifth match of their season, they will be playing with their talismanic bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who has recovered from the back injury he sustained during the Sydney Test in January. Bumrah has rejoined the squad ahead of a crucial clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Widely regarded as the vital cog in MI's machinery, Bumrah's return brings hope of reviving their faltering campaign and restoring their dominance in the tournament. Here's what makes Bumrah the game-changer for MI. 

What Makes Jasprit Bumrah The Most Lethal Bowler in IPL 

Jasprit Bumrah's Role in Mumbai's Triumph 

Since his debut in 2013, Bumrah has secured five IPL titles with Mumbai Indians. While the first two titles came when he was still learning the trick of the trades, the remaining three titles were shaped by his masterful bowling. His contribution in MI's championship-winning seasons of 2017, 2019, and 2020 stand out, where he scalped an impressive 66 wickets in total. Known for delivering under pressure, Bumrah's ability to turn games in MI's favour has made him indispensable. 

20+ Wickets in a Season Four Times 

Bumrah's consistency sets him apart as one of the IPL's all-time greats. He is only the second fast bowler in the tournament's history, after Lasith Malinga, to take 20 or more wickets in a single season on four separate occasions, a testament to his relentless skill and adaptability. With 165 wickets in 133 IPL matches, Bumrah's ability to dismantle batting lineups has been a key factor in MI's sustained success. 

Bumrah's Mastery in Death Over 

Few bowlers in world cricket can match Bumrah's brilliance in the death overs, and his record in the IPL speaks volumes. With 80 wickets in this critical phase, he boasts an astonishing economy rate of just 8.39—a figure that highlights his control and composure when the stakes are highest. Only Dwayne Bravo (102) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (85 have taken more wickets than Bumrah in this phase , but his economy rate is just a shade under 10. Whether it's his pinpoint yorkers or clever variations, Bumrah has consistently stifled opposition batters in the final overs, turning potential run-fests into game-defining moments for MI. 

Impressive Economy in the Powerplay 

While Bumrah's death-over heroics often steal the spotlight, his impact in the Powerplay is equally vital. With an economy rate of 6.58 in the opening overs, the best in the league for a bowler with 100 matches, he has been a master at stifling aggressive starts, setting the tone for MI's bowling attack. His return brings not just wickets but also control, allowing MI to dictate terms from the outset. 

Bumrah Stands as the Vanguard of the Pace Attack 

Beyond his individual brilliance, Bumrah's presence elevates the entire MI bowling lineup. As the vanguard of their pace attack, he brings experience, confidence, and a calming influence that enhances the performance of those around him. Bowlers like Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar, who have shouldered the responsibility in his absence, are likely to benefit from his inclusion and the pressure he exerts on opposition batters.