India’s fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, known for his calm demeanour both on and off the field, momentarily lost his patience when he was surrounded by a group of paparazzi at the Mumbai Airport. In a video that surfaced on social media, Bumrah was seen exiting the terminal when a swarm of photographers rushed toward him for pictures and videos.

The 30-year-old pacer, visibly irritated by the chaos, snapped at the photographers saying, “Maine bulaya hi nahi. Tum kisi aur ke liye aaye ho, aa rahe honge wo” (I haven’t called you. You must be waiting for someone else; they’ll be coming soon). Despite his clear discomfort, the paparazzi continued to insist on a photo. One of them even tried to lighten the mood by joking, “Bumrah bhai, aap bonus mein mile ho humein Diwali ke” (You’re our Diwali bonus, Bumrah bhai), but the bowler appeared in no mood for banter.

This incident comes shortly after yet another episode where Bumrah's frankness was on display; this time, however, it was during India vs West Indies match. In a recent fixture, Bumrah could be heard venting his frustration over a close call that technology couldn't provide clarity on. Following a denial of a potential wicket as the technology wasn't clear, Bumrah was heard saying to the umpire, "You know it's out, but the technology can't prove it." The comment, picked up over the stump mic for the whole stadium to hear, struck a chord with fans and resonated given Bumrah's bluntness and poise even in disappointment.

Bumrah's response at the airport exemplifies the massive pressure and layers of attention cricketers are placed under off the field, and the comments made on the field show his competitive spirit and integrity. In the thick of media into a frenzy or technological shortcomings in the format, the star pacer continues to be constantly scrutinised for both skill and disposition.