Jasprit Bumrah is widely expected to return to India’s playing XI for the crucial fourth Test against England, a match the visitors must win to keep their series hopes alive.
Deep Dasgupta Backs Bumrah’s Return
Former India player Deep Dasgupta believes star speedster Jasprit Bumrah will definitely feature in the upcoming match. Dasgupta highlighted the series situation, stating, “With India trailing 1-2, you would expect him to play.” He also pointed out that Bumrah has had enough rest between games.
The Ongoing Workload Debate
Bumrah’s workload management has been a significant topic of discussion throughout this Test series. The decision to rest him for the second Test at Edgbaston had initially drawn criticism.
Interestingly, that second Test turned out to be India’s only victory in the series so far.
Mixed Signals from the Team
After the Edgbaston win, Shubman Gill confidently confirmed Bumrah’s participation in the next Test at Lord’s. However, following India’s defeat at Lord’s, Gill’s tone changed.
When questioned about Bumrah’s availability then, he simply responded, “You’ll get to know soon,” indicating a shift in certainty.
Coach Gambhir’s Initial Strategy
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir had made it clear before the series began that Bumrah would be limited to playing just three matches to manage his intense workload. He reiterated this stance even after India lost the first Test at Headingley.
Gambhir emphasized that the series scoreline wouldn’t alter the plan to play Bumrah in only three Tests. “Scoreline doesn’t change that… he will play three Tests only,” he had said.
Experts Push for Inclusion
Despite the team management’s earlier plans, prominent cricket experts like Irfan Pathan and Anil Kumble are strongly advocating for Bumrah’s inclusion in the fourth Test. Kumble particularly stressed the match’s importance for India’s series hopes.
He argued that if Bumrah doesn’t play and India loses, the series would be effectively over. Kumble even suggested Bumrah should play both remaining Tests, noting a long break would follow the series.
- Jasprit Bumrah is highly anticipated to play in the crucial fourth Test.
- India must win the upcoming match to stay alive in the series.
- Bumrah’s workload management has been a consistent point of debate.
- Cricket experts are strongly urging his inclusion, despite initial plans for rest.
As India faces a must-win situation, the presence of their key pace bowler could be a pivotal factor in their performance at Old Trafford.
