With Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss the second Test in the ongoing five-match series against England, Arshdeep Singh is being considered as a possible replacement. A report revealed that during India’s first practice session in Birmingham, Arshdeep had an extended training session, highlighting his preparation for a potential Test debut.
India, currently trailing 0-1 in the series, are in need of a strong pace-bowling option due to limited backups available in the squad. Bumrah, who went wicketless in the final innings of the first Test where England successfully chased 371 runs, is reportedly planning to play only three Tests in the series, depending on his fitness.
“Bumrah has previously stated that he plans to play three Tests in the series and will decide on further participation based on how his body responds to the workload.” This uncertainty has forced the team management to explore other pace options, and Arshdeep is currently the front-runner. During the practice, he trained closely with bowling coach Morne Morkel, while both Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna were present but did not train.
Waiting Game for Arshdeep Singh
Although Arshdeep Singh received his maiden Test call-up for this tour, he was not included in the playing XI for the first Test against England. The 26-year-old left-arm pacer has a decent record in first-class cricket, with 66 wickets in 37 innings from 21 matches at an average of 30.37.
While he is still waiting for his red-ball debut, Arshdeep has already played for India in both T20Is and ODIs. “Arshdeep Singh was not included in India’s playing XI for the opening Test of the five-match series against England, despite receiving his maiden Test call-up for the tour.”
His international debut in T20Is came against England in July 2022, followed by an ODI debut against New Zealand in November the same year. He was also a standout performer in the 2025 IPL, finishing as the leading wicket-taker for Punjab Kings with 21 wickets in 16 matches and an economy rate of 8.88.
India Plans Tactical Adjustments for Edgbaston Test
The Indian team is likely to tweak its combination for the second Test, especially considering the conditions expected at Edgbaston. If the pitch resembles the dry and flat surface seen in Headingley, India might go with two spinners.
While Arshdeep Singh’s performance in the nets caught attention, another area of focus was the lower-order batting. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak worked with Mohammed Siraj to improve his technique. “Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak worked extensively with the fast bowler to fine-tune his technique.”
The Indian tail struggled in both innings of the first Test, and England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged the importance of quickly dismissing India’s lower order. “England captain Ben Stokes stated that dismissing India’s tail cheaply was crucial in their win.” With another flat pitch expected, India is aiming for better contributions from the tailenders in the upcoming match.
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