India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to sit out the second Test of the ongoing five-match series against England, scheduled from July 2 to 6 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. As per a report by The Indian Express, the decision is expected to be part of workload management to ensure Bumrah’s sustained fitness through the series.
Bumrah delivered a brilliant performance in the first innings of the opening Test at Headingley, securing his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. However, he went wicketless in the second innings as England successfully chased a daunting target of 371, winning by five wickets and taking a 1-0 series lead.
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Indian speedster Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the second Test against England in Birmingham due to workload management! 🇮🇳🏏👀#JaspritBumrah #Tests #ENGvIND #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/ody5zGFHRc
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The report indicated that Jasprit Bumrah is expected to rejoin the playing XI for the third Test, set to be held at Lord’s in London from July 10 to 14. His absence in the second Test would be a significant setback for India, as he was the standout performer with the ball during much of the opening match.
In Bumrah’s absence, India may turn to pace options like Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, or Harshit Rana to fill the void left by the 31-year-old.
“Level the series first, then rest him” – Ravichandran Ashwin opposes resting Jasprit Bumrah for 2nd Test vs England
Legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin feels Jasprit Bumrah‘s presence in the second Test is crucial for India after their five-wicket defeat in Leeds. He emphasized that playing the premier pacer in Birmingham would significantly boost India’s chances of levelling the series.
Ashwin also suggested a change in the playing XI, recommending that left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav be given an opportunity. Sharing his views on the latest episode of his YouTube channel Ashwin, he made the comments (around 17:51:)
“Considering we are 1-0 down, I’d ask Bumrah to play the second Test, and try to get even in the series, and then he can take the break. Since there is a considerable break between the 3rd and 4th Test, he can take rest then, and play the 2nd Test. I’ll just bring Kuldeep in, and not do any other changes.”
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