New Delhi, Aug. 13 -- Former India cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has backed the workload management of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, saying the national team must take a flexible approach to protecting a "genius" player.

Speaking on The Great Indian Cricket Show on Doordarshan, Chopra said there was little reason to ignore Bumrah's workload requirements if the fast bowler's body needed rest, particularly given his importance to the Indian team across formats.

"If you have a genius like Jasprit Bumrah, and if his body needs some rest, if his load needs to be managed, why would you not do it? Bumrah is a genius. And there are many opinions of many people that if you are fit, then you should play. If you are not, then don't play...