India’s star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah might miss one of the final two Tests of the ongoing tour of England. This is part of a planned workload management strategy. Before the series began, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir had confirmed that Bumrah would play only three of the five Tests to preserve his fitness.
“If They Are True to Their Words, He Should Play” – David Lloyd
Former England cricketer David Lloyd spoke about the situation on TalkSport Cricket. “It is what they’ve said and what the coach Gautam Gambhir said that he will play three out of the five Tests. So, he’s got a choice. There are two matches to go. He’s played two. If they are true to their words, he should play this next game at Old Trafford.”
He further added, “But then, you know, they can manoeuvre that, can’t they? If he plays this next one at Old Trafford and they get a result to make it 2-2, you’d think he’d play at The Oval as well. I’m second-guessing, but I think he’ll play this next game and see where they are. If England go 3-1, he won’tplay. But if it’s 2-2, he will play at the Oval.”
Lloyd also reflected on Bumrah’s impact as a player, saying, “That’s extraordinary. There was something that said when he plays they lose more than when he doesn’t play, and he is like the best bowler in the world. And he is awkward and nasty with his action, but a thoroughly decent fella.”
So far, Bumrah has featured in two of the three Tests – at Headingley and Lord’s – both of which India lost. In the third Test at Edgbaston, which Bumrah missed, India bounced back with a win as Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep stepped up with an impressive bowling performance.
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