India, April 13 -- R Ashwin backed Jasprit Bumrah, pointing out that his lack of wickets lately should not be a cause for concern. Bumrah once again went wicketless as Mumbai Indians crashed to an 18-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday. Chasing a target of 241 runs, MI were restricted to 222/5 in 20 overs despite an unbeaten 31-ball 71* by Sherfane Rutherford. Now, Bumrah also hasn't taken a wicket in his last five IPL matches, which goes back to the second Qualifier last year.

His wicketless run has seen him bowl 122 balls. Even though Bumrah has been wicketless, he has been MI's best bowler this season. Against RCB, he had the best economy among MI bowlers.

"The lack of wickets narrative for Bumrah can hamper the ...