Indian cricket fans received a significant update ahead of the much-anticipated Test series in England: pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah will not be available for all five matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Bumrah’s participation will be limited due to ongoing fitness and workload management concerns. This decision not only impacts India’s bowling attack but also influenced the leadership choices for the tour.
Why Jasprit Bumrah Is Missing the Full Series
Workload and Fitness Management
Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, has faced recurring back injuries over the past couple of years. After missing the Champions Trophy and parts of the IPL due to injury, he returned to form in T20 cricket but is still not considered fit enough for the rigors of a five-match Test series.
Ajit Agarkar explained,
“According to the physios and doctors, it’s unlikely that he will be available for all five Tests. We’ll see how the series progresses and how his body responds to the workload, whether it’s four or three matches. He is crucial for us. Even if he is only fit for three or four Tests, he has the ability to help us win matches.”
Bumrah’s Own Assessment
Bumrah reportedly informed the BCCI that his body cannot handle the toll of five consecutive Tests in England, especially after his recent back injury relapse. This honest communication helped the selectors plan accordingly and avoid any late surprises.
Impact on India’s Test Squad and Captaincy
Leadership Decisions
With Bumrah unavailable for the full series, the selectors turned to Shubman Gill as India’s new Test captain, with Rishabh Pant as vice-captain. Bumrah’s fitness status also took him out of the running for the captaincy, despite his recent experience leading the team in Australia.
Bowling Attack Adjustments
India’s pace attack will need to adapt, especially with Mohammed Shami also ruled out due to injury. The squad now relies on:
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
- Akash Deep
- Shardul Thakur
- Youngsters like Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana (if included)
Bumrah’s presence, even for three or four Tests, will be vital, but India must manage his workload carefully to avoid further setbacks.
India’s Test Squad for England 2025
Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC, WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav
What This Means for India’s Chances
Bumrah’s limited availability is a setback, especially given his match-winning abilities in overseas conditions. However, his inclusion for at least part of the series is a relief for the team management. The focus will be on rotating the pace attack, ensuring Bumrah is used strategically, and supporting the new leadership group as India aims to conquer England.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Jasprit Bumrah unavailable for all five England Tests?
Bumrah is managing a recurring back injury and workload concerns, as advised by BCCI’s medical team. Playing all five Tests could risk aggravating his injury.
2. How many Tests will Bumrah play in England?
He is expected to feature in three or four Tests, depending on his fitness and the team’s requirements as the series progresses.
3. Who is India’s Test captain for the England series?
Shubman Gill has been appointed as the new Test captain, with Rishabh Pant as his deputy.
4. Why was Bumrah not considered for captaincy?
Due to his unavailability for the full series and ongoing fitness concerns, selectors opted for a captain who could play all matches.
5. Who replaces Bumrah in the bowling attack?
India will rely on Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Shardul Thakur, and other young pacers to share the workload in Bumrah’s absence.
Conclusion
Jasprit Bumrah’s absence from all five England Tests is a challenge for Team India, but careful workload management is essential for his long-term career. With a new leadership team and a blend of youth and experience in the squad, India will look to adapt and compete fiercely in the English conditions. Bumrah’s presence, even in a limited capacity, could still be the difference in a closely fought series.