R Ashwin feels that Jasprit Bumrah making his physical well-being a priority would be a sensible move. The fast bowler’s availability for the crucial fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England has become a major topic of discussion. As part of his workload management plan, Bumrah was originally set to play only three of the five Tests in the series.
He featured in the first, third, and fourth matches, while being rested for the second. With India needing a win in the final Test to level the series 2-2, his selection remains uncertain. Ashwin noted that the team management might have tried to convince Bumrah to play, but he believes that giving him rest would likely be the correct decision.
While speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat’ (2:30), the veteran spinner remarked:
“I am pleasantly surprised because if this were the Indian team of the past, they would have persuaded Bumrah to play the final Test. Even now, the team management might have looked at it, but from Bumrah’s perspective, this is a sound decision. He had already decided that he was going to play only three Tests, and he stuck to that.”
Highlighting the long-term benefit of resting Jasprit Bumrah, Ashwin said (at 3:00):
“His back issue is not a normal one. It has kept him out of the game for almost two years. He is a valuable asset to the Indian team. So, the decision is the right one, and I am pleasantly surprised. I am very happy that Bumrah is prioritizing his body because in the long run, he will be very useful.”
“Kuldeep won’t be the strike bowler” – R Ashwin on his role for 5th Test
R Ashwin expressed that Kuldeep Yadav is unlikely to be India’s main strike bowler if included in the playing XI at The Oval. He pointed out that the left-arm spinner would take on more of a supporting role, much like a fourth fast bowler. However, Ashwin felt Kuldeep could be impactful in England’s second innings.
“There’s no need to put pressure on Kuldeep. He’ll play the role of a fourth seamer, not the strike bowler, as pace will lead in these conditions. In the first innings, he can bowl economically, break partnerships, or clean up the tail. But with runs on the board, he could be a real threat in the second innings.”
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