Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah will feature in the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, beginning Wednesday, July 23. India currently trail the five-match series 2-1, having lost the third Test at Lord’s by 22 runs.
Before the series began, the Indian team management had indicated that Bumrah would only participate in three of the five Tests during the tour. So far, the right-arm pacer has played in two matches and was rested for the third Test in Birmingham.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, July 21, Siraj confirmed Bumrah’s return for the fourth Test. When asked about the pacer’s availability, he responded:
“Jassi bhai toh khelenge. [Jassi bhai will play] as far as I know [smiles].”
While Jasprit Bumrah is set to play the fourth Test, Nitish Kumar Reddy is out of the series and Arshdeep Singh will miss the next match. With concerns over Akash Deep’s fitness, Siraj admitted injuries have forced changes in the bowling attack but stressed the focus remains on hitting the right areas.
“The combination is changing by the day, but our plan is to keep bowling in good areas. In the last match, England batted with a lot of patience. We also felt good and enjoyed the fun of Test cricket. Whatever they do, our plan is to keep bowling in good areas.”
Siraj Dismisses Workload Concerns, Keen To Play More Matches
There’s been debate over Bumrah’s workload, but Siraj too has bowled heavily in Australia and England. Some experts feel his workload should be managed, but Mohammed Siraj dismissed the concerns, saying he wants to play as much as possible for India.
“Thank to the almighty, I have been extremely fit and healthy so far. Yes, there are discussions about my workload as well, but my mindset is to make the best of all the opportunities that are coming my way and win matches for my country by performing well. I want to play as many matches as I can for the country.”
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