In a significant setback before the IND vs ENG 2nd Test, India’s star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is said to miss the match at Edgbaston on July 2. In a report by the Indian Express, Bumrah has been rested as part of a workload management plan and should be back for the third Test at Lord’s, which will start on July 10.
The non-availability of Jasprit Bumrah, who has been a key contributor for India in English weather, might drastically affect the bowling setup of the team as they seek to recover from their five-wicket defeat in the first Test at Headingley.
India Struggled Despite Bumrah’s Brilliance in the 1st Test
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Bumrah bowled a fiery 44 overs in the initial Test, picking up 5 for 140 for 3.20 per over. His contribution was the highlight in an otherwise disappointing Indian bowling effort. The three-pronged attack of Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, and Prasidh Krishna together gave away 482 runs for 9 wickets in 92 overs, demonstrating Bumrah’s value in the team.
Losing their strike bowler, India’s struggling pace unit will need to reboot fast to remain competitive in the second match of the IND vs ENG Test series.
Who Can Replace Jasprit Bumrah in India’s Playing XI?
The Indian team management has a key decision to make: who could fill in for Bumrah? The two main candidates are Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep.
1- Arshdeep Singh – The Left Arm Swing Option
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Arshdeep Singh would be the best option for India to replace Bumrah in the squad. Although he does not have any experience in red-ball cricket at the international level, getting Arshdeep would be a good change of pace, left-arm option. His left-arm swing ability both ways could be a big asset in English conditions where the ball swings, particularly early on against England’s opening batsmen.
2- Akash Deep – The Disciplined Workhorse
In comparison, Akash Deep offers control and consistency. He’s got tight lines and can find movement off the seam, so Akash may thrive on Edgbaston’s surfaces, which lend themselves towards fuller lengths and bowling-friendly conditions. While he does not have Bumrah’s scintillating pace, his controlled mindset and discipline could give India the chance to pressurize the English batting lineup.
Can India Reorganize Without Bumrah for IND vs ENG 2nd Test?
India’s bowling lineup will have to rely on Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, and one of the probable debutants, Arshdeep or Akash Deep. The task is tall: India were unable to defend 371 runs at Headingley with Bumrah in the attack.
The task will be even more daunting without him in the mix at Edgbaston. Team India will hope that whoever steps in can make an immediate impact and help level the series in the crucial IND vs ENG 2nd Test.
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