New Delhi: In a gripping third Test, India lost by 22 runs against England at Lord’s. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s half-century was complemented well by the tailenders as they held one end to help India stay in the match. While both Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj did not score many runs, they faced a combined 84 balls, giving Jadeja the chance to mount a fightback.
The end did not turn out the way the visitors wanted, but they will definitely look to bounce back at Old Trafford in Manchester to level the series. The Indian side might make multiple changes to the playing XI for the fourth Test. Questions remain over whether the World No. 1 Test bowler will be available or if he will be rested for the game next week as part of workload management.
Before the start of the series, it was confirmed that Bumrah would be available for only three Tests. Following the loss, Indian skipper Shubman Gill was asked about Bumrah’s availability for the fourth Test against England. Gill said, “You will get to know it soon.”
Who will step in if Bumrah misses out?
Bumrah has already played two Tests in the series and is set to play only one more. If he misses the next game, Akash Deep could retain his place in the XI. The other bowlers in India’s Test squad- Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, and Kuldeep Yadav- might get a chance for the Manchester Test. Akash Deep’s inclusion would bring variety to India’s bowling attack in Bumrah’s absence.
Anil Kumble urges team to play Bumrah
Former Indian captain Anil Kumble has urged the team management to ensure that Bumrah plays in both remaining Tests. India have never won a Test in Manchester, and Kumble believes Bumrah’s absence would make India’s defeat almost certain, ending their hopes of winning the series.
The last time India played in Manchester was back in 2014 when the MS Dhoni-led side lost by an innings and 54 runs. The fourth Test will begin on July 23, and for now, the Indian team management has chosen to stay silent on their plans regarding Bumrah’s availability.