Team India captain Shubman Gill has confirmed that star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah will be available for selection in the second Test against England, which begins on Wednesday, July 2, at Edgbaston in Birmingham. However, Gill mentioned that the final decision regarding the team combination will be made after the training session on Tuesday.
India lost the opening Test at Headingley, Leeds, by five wickets. While Bumrah took five wickets in the first innings, he went without a wicket in the second. Ahead of the second Test, there were several reports suggesting that Bumrah might be rested for the upcoming match. Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Gill said:
“Bumrah is surely available. We have to look into this workload management. We have to look into the final combination today at the nets.”
As confirmed by captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir, Jasprit Bumrah will play only three of the five Tests against England. Gill admitted Bumrah’s absence will be felt but said the team is prepared and confident in the rest of the bowling attack.
“We knew prior to the series that we would get Jasprit for three games, but we had that sorted beforehand. Yes, obviously we would miss him, but we have our plans sorted,” he stated.
“It is difficult, but the players we have picked are the best in India. These are the best 15-16 players all over India. As I said, it’s difficult, but not an impossible task. There are other bowlers as well, who have performed well and that is why they are playing for the country. Because of our talent pool we are able to complete very well away from home,” Gill went on to add.
Ravi Shastri hopes Bumrah features in 2nd ENG vs IND 2025 Test
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri expressed optimism about Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the second Test in Birmingham. He believes the star pacer’s presence is crucial, especially with India trailing 1-0 in the series. Speaking to the ICC, Shastri said:
“Now, whether Bumrah plays or doesn’t play, one doesn’t know. But let’s hope he does because this is a very important Test match and all is not lost. You take it one game at a time. It’s a five-match series and India will be hoping to bounce back.”
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