Jasprit Bumrah has to play. That’s what former India coach Anil Kumble believes as India prepares for the 4th Test against England.
After losing the 3rd Test by just 22 runs, Team India is under pressure. The series is on the line. And according to Kumble, Bumrah’s presence could be the difference between a comeback or collapse.
India’s fast bowling star has already picked up 12 wickets in just four innings. That makes him the second-highest wicket-taker in the series, just behind Mohammed Siraj.
But here’s the twist. Before the series started, head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said that Jasprit Bumrah will play only 3 out of 5 Tests. This was to manage his workload. So far, he has played at Headingley and Lord’s. He was rested during the Edgbaston Test.
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Now, with a week-long break before the 4th Test at Old Trafford starting July 23, fans and experts are hoping Bumrah plays.
Speaking on JioHostar, Kumble said,
“I would push for Bumrah to play the next game. If he doesn’t, and India lose, that’s it. The series would be gone. He should play both the remaining Tests.”
Kumble also pointed out that there’s a long break after this series. So if Bumrah needs rest, he can skip the home matches. “But right now, he should be there for India,” he added.
There was also a scare during Thursday’s practice. Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm pacer, got a cut on his bowling hand. He needed a bandage. If he can’t play, India will need Bumrah even more.
The 4th Test at Manchester is key. India wants to level the series 2-2. After that, the final match is at The Oval from July 31 to August 4.
This is crunch time. India needs experience, control, and killer instinct with the ball. And nobody brings that like Jasprit Bumrah.
If there’s ever a moment to push a player past the “rest” plan, it’s now. The team needs its leader. The dressing room needs his calm. And the fans want to see him fire one more time.
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