India is trailing 1-2 in the five-match Test series against England, and the fourth Test at Old Trafford is a must-win if they wish to keep the series alive. Dropping Jasprit Bumrah, the world’s No. 1 Test bowler, for such a crucial encounter could be a risky move. While India did register a win in Edgbaston without him, depending on the remaining bowlers in such a high-pressure game might not be wise.
The absence of key senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin had raised doubts before the tour, but this young Indian side has shown great fight. Still, now that the series hangs in the balance, India needs to bring out their best to turn the tide. Considering Bumrah’s experience, match-winning ability, and current form, it makes perfect sense to include him in the playing XI at Manchester, especially since the pitch there is likely to offer more help to the pacers than the one at The Oval.
Bumrah’s Match-Winning Influence
Jasprit Bumrah’s performance in this series has been phenomenal. Despite playing only two of the three matches so far, he has taken 12 wickets, just one short of Mohammed Siraj’s 13 wickets from three Tests. In the first match at Leeds, Bumrah picked up a five-wicket haul and returned with another five-for after being rested for the second game.
His bowling average of 21 is the best in the series, and among bowlers who have bowled over 50 overs, his economy rate of 2.91 is the lowest. Bumrah’s versatility across formats, his ability to bowl deadly spells on both pace-friendly and flat tracks, and his consistent breakthroughs make him a priceless asset. These qualities underline why many call him the finest pacer of his generation.
Recovery Time is Sufficient
While the team management has carefully handled Bumrah’s workload since his back injury during the 2024-25 Australia series, the current situation demands his inclusion. India rested him to avoid overexertion, especially after his absence from the Champions Trophy due to fitness concerns. However, with an eight-day gap between the third and fourth Tests, Bumrah has had enough time to rest and recover.
Saving him for the final Test might not be logical if India loses the series by then. Playing him now not only increases India’s chances of levelling the series but also prevents the last Test from becoming a mere formality. While other bowlers have stepped up, Bumrah’s presence adds immense value, and his exclusion could prove costly.
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