With the crucial final Test at The Oval looming, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the pressing debate surrounding India’s bowling attack, particularly the availability of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
India’s Crucial Oval Challenge
As India trails the five-match Test series 2-1, the upcoming fifth and final Test at The Oval is an absolute must-win. Captain Shubman Gill and the team management face a tough decision: how to assemble the strongest and fittest bowling lineup for this decisive encounter.
Much of the focus is on the workload of key pacers, especially Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, who have both endured a demanding series.
The Bumrah Dilemma: Should He Play a Fourth Test?
Jasprit Bumrah has already played three Tests in the series, leading to questions about his fitness for a fourth or even fifth consecutive match. Aakash Chopra believes Bumrah should definitely be in the playing XI for The Oval.
“Bumrah has decided that he will play three (Tests) only. Should he play three only? I feel a fourth can be played. Why can’t he play his fourth Test and the fifth Test of the series? I feel he should play,” Chopra stated on his YouTube channel, emphasizing the importance of Bumrah’s presence.
Pacer Fitness Concerns
Beyond Bumrah, doubts also linger over the fitness of other Indian fast bowlers. Mohammed Siraj has been a constant presence, grinding through four straight Tests, raising concerns about his readiness for another gruelling match.
Chopra expressed uncertainty about the fitness levels of pacers like Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh, despite claims from within the team that everyone is available. He stressed the importance of knowing if they are truly 100 percent fit for such a high-stakes game.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Strong Case
While the pace attack faces questions, Chopra made a very strong case for the inclusion of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He highlighted that The Oval surface traditionally assists spinners in the latter half of the match, making Kuldeep a vital asset.
“I feel Kuldeep Yadav should definitely be played at The Oval ground because this is a surface that eventually helps spin, and he is also crafty and skillful. You need to bring such bowlers into the game,” Chopra explained.
He added that while England’s “Bazball” approach might lead them to try and attack Kuldeep, his skill and ability to deceive batters could backfire on them. Chopra firmly stamped his approval for Kuldeep Yadav’s selection.
The Spin Combination and Pace Needs
Chopra anticipates that Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar will likely feature in the playing XI, providing a strong spin attack. However, he stressed the critical need for capable fast bowlers to complement them.
“I see Jaddu and Sundar playing. So you have got these three spinners, but then, you also need fast bowlers,” Chopra concluded, highlighting the balancing act required for the final Test.
- Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for a fourth Test is a major talking point.
- Aakash Chopra believes Bumrah should play the crucial final Test.
- Concerns persist over the fitness of other pacers like Mohammed Siraj.
- Chopra strongly advocates for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion due to The Oval’s spin-friendly nature.
- India needs a strong balance between pace and spin for the decisive match.
The team management faces a critical decision in selecting the optimal bowling unit to clinch a victory at The Oval and end the series on a high note.
