As India gears up for a must-win encounter at Old Trafford, all eyes turn to the fitness and availability of one of their most potent weapons—Jasprit Bumrah. With England leading the series 2-1, the fourth Test becomes a virtual final for India, and Bumrah’s inclusion could tip the scales.
Speaking after a light training session in Beckenham, ten Doeschate revealed that the Indian think tank is “leaning towards playing” Bumrah in Manchester. The fourth Test, set to begin on July 23, could tip the series either way, making Bumrah’s inclusion a critical talking point.
“We’ll make that call in Manchester still. We know we’ve got him for one of the last two Tests. I think it’s pretty obvious the series is on the line in Manchester, so there will be a leaning towards playing him,“ ten Doeschate said.
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Bumrah’s Carefully Managed Comeback
After undergoing back surgery in March 2023, Bumrah returned to Test cricket with a pre-planned schedule—only three Tests out of five. He sat out the second Test at Edgbaston, a move criticized heavily, especially with India trailing after the opener.
Despite the break, Bumrah made a telling impact at Headingley and Lord’s, picking up two five-wicket hauls in the process. With another eight-day gap between Lord’s and the upcoming Test, fans and experts are eager to see him unleashed once again.
“But again, we’ve to look at all the factors—how many days of cricket are we going to get up there? What do we feel is our best chance of winning that game? And then how that fits in together with the Oval,” added ten Doeschate.
Mohammed Siraj: The Silent Workhorse
While Bumrah garners headlines, Mohammed Siraj has quietly carried a massive workload. The leading wicket-taker in the series with 13 scalps at an average of 32.00, Siraj has bowled 109 overs—the fourth most in the series. “I think we sort of take for granted our luck to have someone like that… he’s like a lion,” ten Doeschate said.
“He’s not someone who’s going to shy away from workload, so it makes it even more important for us to manage his workload and make sure that he’s at least fit to give his best.”
Pant or Jurel Behind the Stumps?
Another selection dilemma revolves around Rishabh Pant, who sustained an injury to his left index finger while keeping at Lord’s. Though he batted in pain during both innings, Pant didn’t keep wickets, with Dhruv Jurel taking over.
“He batted with quite a lot of pain in the third Test and it’s only going to get easier and easier on his finger. Keeping is obviously the last part of the process,” said ten Doeschate. “Jurel is in the equation but obviously if Rishabh’s fit he comes in and does both.”
Fitness Cloud Over Arshdeep
India’s fast-bowling combination might also depend on Arshdeep Singh, who suffered a cut on his finger during practice. “Yeah, he took a ball while he was bowling there, he tried to stop it and it’s just a cut… Obviously if he needs stitches or doesn’t need stitches, that’s going to be important to our planning for the next few days,” he explained.
Road to Manchester
India will travel to Manchester on July 19 and resume training on Sunday. All key players—Bumrah, Siraj, Pant, and potentially Arshdeep—will be assessed before a final call is made. With England holding the lead, India needs a spirited performance to level the series and take it to a decider at The Oval.
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FAQs
Is Jasprit Bumrah confirmed to play the 4th Test against England?
No, but India’s assistant coach said they are “leaning towards playing him” considering the series is on the line.
What is the current score of the Test series?
England currently leads the five-match Test series 2-1.
What’s the update on Rishabh Pant’s injury?
Pant is recovering from a finger injury and a final decision on whether he can keep will be taken before the 4th Test.
Who will replace Pant if he cannot keep wickets?
Dhruv Jurel will likely step in as the wicketkeeper if Pant is unfit or can only bat.
Is Arshdeep Singh available for the fourth Test?
Arshdeep suffered a cut on his finger in training. His availability will depend on medical assessments closer to the match.
