Subhayan Chakraborty in Birmingham
India are yet to announce their squad for the upcoming Test, likely holding off until the toss to finalise their decision on Jasprit Bumrah. The top-ranked fast bowler is expected to sit out this match, with indications suggesting he may only feature in three of the five Tests in the series.
The visitors are poised to make additional tweaks to their lineup. Nitish Kumar Reddy could be brought in to strengthen the batting, while Akash Deep is a likely replacement for Bumrah. Additionally, India might opt for all-rounder Washington Sundar in place of Shardul Thakur to add another spin option with Kuldeep Yadav set to warm the bench yet again. It remains to be seen whether Arshdeep Singh gets his maiden Test cap or not.
“Bumrah is ready to play if needed,” said assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. “We’re weighing our options for these four Tests, considering factors like weather and pitch conditions. We’ll decide at the last moment whether he plays now or is saved for later matches, like Lord’s, Manchester, or the Oval. He’s been training, so it’s about strategic planning, not fitness concerns.”
India have never secured a Test victory at Edgbaston and would be content with a draw if Bumrah is rested. Ten Doeschate noted the pitch, with 11mm of grass and a dry base, favours batting but could suit two spinners. While Ravindra Jadeja is a certainty, the team is leaning toward the off-spin of Washington Sundar over wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
India’s cautious approach with Bumrah likely to sit out appears focused on preserving him for key matches, particularly the prestigious Lord’s Test next week. However, this strategy risks overcomplicating things. If Bumrah is limited to three Tests, as repeatedly stated, prioritising earlier games might be wiser than saving him for potentially inconsequential later matches.
A potential Lord’s return for Bumrah could set the stage for an electrifying clash with England’s dynamic fast bowler Jofra Archer. Yet, without him now, India risk falling behind 2-0 early in the series.
Without Bumrah, India seem inclined to play conservatively. Ten Doeschate highlighted a batting-friendly pitch and the possibility of light showers, hinting that a draw is a possible result. However, this mindset could be risky against an aggressive England side determined to force a result. Over-relying on weather predictions for an English Test is also questionable, especially with only minor showers forecast, unlike the heavily disrupted Old Trafford Test in 2023, England’s only draw under Ben Stokes.
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