Should he or shouldn’t he? The BCCI Selection Committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, will have questions regarding Jasprit Bumrah. The selectors are discussing potential rest to Bumrah with Rajkot pitch set to be benign, aiding batters mostly. And considering Bumrah has already bowled 57.5 overs in the two IND vs ENG Test matches.
However, as selectors meet on Thursday to pick India squad for the remaining three Tests, it remains unclear whether he should play in Rajkot. He has been given the freedom to make his own choice on playing in IND vs ENG 3rd Test.
Should Jasprit Bumrah play IND vs ENG 3rd Test?
The selectors understand that Bumrah is a crucial cog in winning the Test series. The fact that Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps in two Tests makes it clear that he is indispensable.
With England challenging Indian spinners, Bumrah’s presence will be crucial, especially with Ravindra Jadeja still uncertain to be fit for the IND vs ENG 3rd Test.
Furthermore, Bumrah is the team’s vice-captain and he understands the responsibility as India are gunning for the third consecutive World Test Championship final. He is in the leadership group. And with Virat Kohli absent, he has additional responsibility to support Rohit Sharma.
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However, there is a bigger picture. There will be two more Tests after Rajkot while there will be a long IPL 2024 and then the most important T20 World Cup 2024.
Jasprit Bumrah has already struggled with injuries, missing almost a year between 2022-2023 including T20 WC.
Hence, selectors do not want to put a fragile Bumrah through a gruelling Rajkot Test.
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