Rajkot: In a strategic move aimed at managing player workload, Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier pacer, will extend his break by skipping the upcoming Test in Ranchi against England. Initially rested for the third Test of the ongoing series, Bumrah will now sit out the subsequent match as well. The decision regarding his participation in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala will be contingent on the outcome of the Ranchi Test, which commences on February 23.
As the Indian team prepares to depart from Rajkot on Tuesday (February 20), Bumrah is expected to opt for a different travel route. Instead of flying with the squad, he is likely to drive down to Ahmedabad, a four-hour journey from Rajkot, on Monday. There are no indications of any other player opting to skip the upcoming Test in Ranchi.
The move to rest Bumrah is a proactive step in the direction of workload management, considering the crucial role he has played in the ongoing England series. Bumrah stands as the leading wicket-taker in the series, with an impressive tally of 17 wickets at an average of 13.64. Having bowled 80.5 overs across the three games, the decision aims to ensure the pacer’s fitness and longevity in international cricket.
Notably, Mohammed Siraj was also given a similar break during the second Test in Visakhapatnam. While there is no immediate confirmation regarding a replacement for Bumrah, Mukesh Kumar, who was released from the third Test to participate in a Ranji game for Bengal, is set to rejoin the squad in Ranchi. The team management also has the option of including Akash Deep, the Bengal seamer who received his maiden call-up ahead of the Rajkot Test.
The strategic rotation and rest policy adopted by the Indian team emphasize the importance of managing the physical and mental well-being of players in a packed cricket calendar. Bumrah’s absence in Ranchi will provide an opportunity for other bowlers to step up and make their mark in the ongoing series.
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