After losing the first Test against England at Headingley, India are 0-1 down in the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. Now, all eyes are on fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the second Test in Birmingham, starting July 2.
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Bumrah is fit and available, but said the team has not yet decided if he will play. “Jasprit Bumrah is available but we haven’t made a call yet whether he will play this game or not,” he told reporters.
Ryan ten Doeschate: Jasprit Bumrah is ready to play, we will take that call at the last moment. Nitish Kumar Reddy is very close to getting a game. He is our premium batting all-rounder.
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) June 30, 2025
The decision isn’t about Bumrah’s fitness, but part of a planned strategy to manage his workload. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had earlier mentioned that Bumrah will play in only three out of the five Tests in this series to keep him fresh for future matches. “The scoreline doesn’t change that,” Gambhir had said after the first Test loss.
In the meantime, young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy may make his debut in this match. The coach said that Nitish has impressed during training and is “very close to getting a game.” If Bumrah is rested, Nitish’s inclusion could help balance the team.
India’s bowling attack struggled in the first Test, so there is pressure to play the best XI and try to level the series. However, the team seems focused on long-term success and not just short-term results.
As the second Test approaches, India has a big decision to make — should they play Bumrah now and try to level the series, or stick to their plan and trust the bench strength?
IND vs ENG Test Series Schedule:
- 1st Test: June 20-24, 2025 – Headingley, Leeds – England won by 5 wickets
- 2nd Test: July 2-6, 2025 – Edgbaston, Birmingham
- 3rd Test: July 10-14, 2025 – Lord’s, London
- 4th Test: July 23-27, 2025 – Old Trafford, Manchester
- 5th Test: July 31-August 4, 2025 – The Oval, London
