Team India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak revealed that a final call on Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, starting Thursday, July 31, is yet to be made. However, he confirmed that the premier fast bowler is fully fit and available for selection.
Before the England tour began, the Indian team management had announced that Bumrah would feature in only three of the five Tests as part of workload management. But with the series now at a crucial stage, that plan might be reconsidered. England currently lead the series 2-1, and India must win the final Test to secure a draw.
During a press conference on Tuesday, July 29, Kotak addressed Bumrah’s potential inclusion in the playing XI for the series decider.
“No discussion on Jasprit Bumrah playing. Bumrah is fit now. According to his load, he has bowled one inning in the last match. So, obviously head coach, our physio and captain, will have a discussion and decide.”
🚨 𝑹𝑬𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻𝑺 🚨
Kuldeep Yadav is reportedly in contention for the fifth Test, along with Akash Deep, who is expected to return to the squad.
If Jasprit Bumrah is rested for the final Test, Arshdeep Singh could be in line for a spot in the XI.#ENGvIND #Oval #KuldeepYadav… pic.twitter.com/MpUohe6p5E
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) July 29, 2025
Experts and fans have had mixed reactions to India’s workload management of Jasprit Bumrah, who has played three Tests so far, taking 14 wickets at an average of 26, including two five-wicket hauls. He is currently the second-highest wicket-taker in the series.
Indian Batting Coach Hints At Pace-Friendly Conditions For Oval Test
When asked about the pitch for the fifth and final Test at The Oval, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak acknowledged that there is some grass on the surface. However, he noted that a clearer understanding of the pitch would only emerge once the match gets underway. Kotak stated:
“There is grass on the wicket. Apart from Manchester, there has been grass on all the other wickets in the series. There is some moisture. Traditionally, the bounce is good here. There is also some movement early on and runs can also be scored. This data, however, is from 2019 and we are in 2025 now. So, when we play we’ll know exactly how the wicket is.”
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