Indian captain Shubman Gill has stated that elite fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah will return to the playing XI for the third Test against England at Lord’s, which begins July 10. Bumrah, who missed the second Test in Birmingham due to workload management, is likely to boost India’s speed attack, with the five-match series tied at 1-1.
The 31-year-old, India’s current No. 1 Test bowler, sat out the team’s emphatic 336-run victory at Edgbaston. However, upon his comeback, seamer Prasidh Krishna will most likely make way.
In Bumrah’s absence, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj led India’s bowling attack to tremendous success. Deep, in particular, impressed with 10 wickets in both innings.
Shubman Gill praised the duo’s efforts, emphasising their discipline and importance on levelling the series.
“Certainly (when asked about Bumrah’s availability).” I’m very thrilled about playing at Lord’s. Possibly the most recognisable cricket stadium in the world. And as children, everyone fantasises about playing there. And I believe there is no greater honour than being able to captain your country and lead the team there,” Gill said following India’s historic victory at Edgbaston.
“When two of your fast bowlers take 16-17 wickets, the captaincy is extremely simple. When two fast bowlers are in such terrific form… Bumrah did not play in this match, but I believe there is so much quality in India that the roster of 16-17 players includes India’s top bowlers. And from them, any bowling attack can take 20 wickets in any situation or environment,” he said.
The right-handed batter was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knocks of 269 and 161 at Edgbaston, anchoring India’s innings in both efforts. Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also played a crucial role in the dominant win, contributing with both bat and ball to help India seal a comprehensive 336-run victory. Gill acknowledged the importance of leading by example in his new role as captain.
“Sometimes, especially when you are the captain, I think you need to lead by example so that whenever there is another player in that situation, you can command that player. ‘This is what the team requires right now and you always have to put the team first rather than your personal desires.’
Or sometimes you want to try some things, but I think if you put the team ahead of you, you will always walk in the right direction or walk on the right path and that’s what I wanted to do in this match. If a good ball gets me out, it gets me out, but as long as I’m there, I want to play as long as possible,” Gill said.
“I’d say I’m feeling comfortable (with my form as a batter). “I’m definitely feeling comfortable with my game and hopefully with my contribution, if we are able to win this series, that would be a great achievement for us,” he added.
The 25-year-old believes there is no reason why this Indian team can’t build on the momentum from their emphatic win in Birmingham and go on to win the series.
“I believe this is the best Indian team to ever come here to England and we have the capability to beat them and win the series from here. We have got the right momentum with us and if we keep making the right decisions and if we keep trying and keep fighting it will be a series to remember,” Gill concluded.
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