Ahead of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir stated that Jasprit Bumrah will be available for only three of the five Tests. The talismanic seamer has already played in two of the first three Test matches. So he should play either the fourth Test in Manchester or the fifth Test in London.
However, former England cricketer David Lloyd believes Gambhir may have to modify his plans for Bumrah’s involvement in the final two Test matches, as India is losing 1-2.
“It is what they have indicated, as well as what coach Gautam Gambhir has said, that he will play three of the five Tests. So, he has an option. There are still two matches to go. He has played two games. If they keep their word, he should play the next game at Old Trafford.
But, you know, they can handle that, can’t they? If he plays the next game at Old Trafford and the score is 2-2, you’d expect him to play at The Oval as well. I’m speculating, but I assume he’ll play the next game and see where they are. If England wins 3–1, he will not play. “But if it’s 2-2, he’ll play at the Oval,” Lloyd told TalkSport Cricket.
Jasprit Bumrah took five wickets in the first Test at Headingley and three at Lord’s.
However, India lost both matches. The Asian heavyweights won the second Test at Edgbaston, with Akash Deep taking 10 wickets to replace Bumrah, who was rested. Lloyd expressed his thoughts on India losing matches despite having Bumrah in the playing XI.
“That is extraordinary. It was reported that when he plays, they lose more than when he does not play, and he is considered the best bowler in the world. And he’s uncomfortable and ugly in his actions, but a truly decent person,” he said.
The highly-anticipated fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester gets underway on Wednesday, July 23. Bumrah will get eight days of rest before that encounter. His presence will be critical for the Shubman Gill-led side as they look to restore parity in the series.
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