While India star pacer Jasprit Bumrah silenced his critics with a fiery five-wicket haul in his side’s first innings of the Headingley Test against England, his wife and broadcaster Sanjana Ganesan offered a much calmer, thoughtful response to the noise surrounding the India pacer.

Speaking during lunch on Day 4 on Sony Sports, Sanjana addressed the constant commentary around Bumrah’s fitness and availability, saying that most people form opinions based only on what they see on the field — not who he really is as a person.

ENG vs IND, 1st Test Day 4: Updates

“In the short time that I’ve known and been married to a professional athlete, I’ve realised that people don’t know every aspect of your life — they only know what you choose to show them. They know Jasprit Bumrah on a cricket field, but they don’t know what he’s like at home or off the field,” Sanjana Ganesan said.

“So, I’ve tried to separate who we are as people from public opinion — and it’s just a lot more peaceful inside your head when you do that. But at the end of the day, you have to remember that people on both sides of every opinion are human beings, and you have to treat them with respect and kindness,” she added.

Sanjana’s comments highlighted the importance of separating public perception from personal reality. In her view, much of the criticism comes from people who only know Bumrah as a cricketer — not the person behind the scenes. By choosing not to internalise those outside opinions, she said, life becomes a lot more peaceful. Her remarks were also a reminder to engage with all perspectives — even critical ones — with kindness and respect.

This composed take from Sanjana came just a day after Jasprit Bumrah himself addressed his critics during the post-Day 3 press conference. The India pacer hit back strongly, stating that he’s been written off multiple times throughout his career and has always found a way to bounce back.

And bounce back he did. Bumrah produced a sensational spell in England’s first innings, picking up his 14th career five-wicket haul to put India right back in the contest. His effort helped India restrict England’s lead to just 6 runs, and once again reminded everyone why he remains one of the best in the world — regardless of the outside noise.

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