Uncertainty Surrounds Bumrah’s Participation in Final Test Against England

Jasprit Bumrah’s involvement in the deciding fifth Test against England at The Oval is a matter of speculation. As India prepares for this decisive potential-final match in the series, focus turns to Bumrah’s fitness. The team’s chief targeteer, she has been instrumental in the series as she’s led her side with 14 wickets. Questions about his fitness and effectiveness on the field have been amplified after his recent performances.

With the fifth and final Test set to begin on Thursday, Bumrah’s fitness status remains a major concern. Just earlier this year, he was battling a severe back injury. To counter the effects of his recently-acquired workload, the Indian management restricted his workload ahead of the series. The original announcement made it clear that Bumrah would play a maximum of three Tests. He has just played his third Test.

In that fourth Test at Old Trafford, Bumrah failed to live up to expectations. He ended with just 2-112 from 33 overs which was a bitter return. He could not get going on pace and potency, taking just two wickets in England’s innings in the rain-affected dead rubber Test. All of these factors combined have created ambiguity about whether or not he would be available for the final Test.

Recently, teammate Shubman Gill discussed Bumrah’s possible return, saying how big it would be for the team.

“If he feels like he’s fully fit and available for us, I think it would be a great deal for us.” – Shubman Gill

Gill conceded that even without Bumrah in the squad, India have a formidable pace attack.

“If he’s not playing, I still think we have the right kind of bowling attack.” – Shubman Gill

Fellow seamer Akash Deep returns as well! He will be eligible for selection for the final Test having missed the fourth Test with a groin injury. This development arms India with more options if Bumrah is unfit to take the field.

Former England captain Alastair Cook added his voice to Gill’s long game with Bumrah cautious injury return move. He told me in advance that it was smart not to reveal too much ahead of the competition. The stakes are high with India desperately trying to gain a lead in the series that would place them one up toward winning the entire series.