The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted to rest star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, set to commence next month, according to a report by the Indian Express on Monday.
Bumrah, who has been a key figure in India’s bowling attack, has not made an appearance since playing a pivotal role in India’s triumph at the 2024 T20 World Cup. In that tournament, Bumrah’s exceptional performance was instrumental in India securing the title, particularly during the final against South Africa in Bridgetown, where his bowling turned the match decisively in India’s favor.
Following the World Cup, the 30-year-old pacer was absent from India’s T20I series against Zimbabwe and the white-ball fixtures against Sri Lanka. His continued absence seems likely as the BCCI is prioritizing his fitness, aiming to ensure that he is in peak condition for upcoming crucial matches, including the all-important Test series against Australia.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who recently featured in the ODI series against Sri Lanka, are expected to be part of the Test squad against Bangladesh. However, Bumrah will not be included, as the BCCI exercises caution with his workload.
The final decision on Bumrah’s participation in upcoming series lies with the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar. India faces a packed Test schedule over the next four months, with 10 red-ball matches on the horizon, including a vital five-Test series against Australia.
The Bangladesh series will be followed by a three-Test series against New Zealand. Considering the spin-friendly nature of the pitches expected in Bangladesh, the BCCI believes that Bumrah’s services might not be as critical, allowing them the opportunity to give him additional rest.
In Bumrah’s absence, Mohammed Shami is likely to make a comeback to the Test squad after recovering from knee surgery, which sidelined him following the ODI World Cup 2023. If selected, Shami would likely partner with Mohammed Siraj, forming a formidable pace duo.
As India eyes its third consecutive appearance in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, they currently top the WTC points table with six wins from nine matches. With key Test series on the horizon, the management’s cautious approach with Bumrah’s fitness reflects their broader strategy of maintaining a balanced and fit squad for the challenges ahead.
