Jasprit Bumrah stole the spotlight in the second Test between India and England at Vizag, playing a crucial role in guiding the Indian team to a convincing victory.
In the recent match, Jasprit Bumrah showcased a stellar performance, securing a total of 9 wickets and earning the well-deserved Player of the Match title. Impressively, he also clinched the record for being the fastest Indian pacer to reach 150 Test wickets, achieving this milestone in just 34 matches.
Looking ahead, the selectors are yet to finalize the Indian cricket team for the remaining three Test matches. According to Cricbuzz, there are indications that Bumrah might be rested for the upcoming Rajkot match. Despite his impactful 32 overs in the last game, there’s a concern that the tremendous effort might have taken a toll on his energy. Considering Bumrah’s history of injuries, the selectors are inclined to provide him with some essential rest, especially after his crucial role in the team’s success.
The Indian cricket team management is adopting a rotational policy for their fast bowlers. This strategy was evident in the exclusion of Mohammed Siraj from the second Test, and it appears that Bumrah might follow suit in the upcoming third Test in Rajkot.
With the Test series currently tied at 1-1, India has climbed to the second position in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 standings following their victory in the second Test. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, aims to maintain this positive momentum as they gear up for the third Test scheduled to commence on February 15 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot.
Despite the triumph in the second Test, concerns linger in the Indian camp, particularly regarding the struggles of the middle and lower-order batsmen. The team is grappling with scoring runs to their full potential and the absence of senior Indian batters.
India’s leading pace bowler Mohammed Shami, remains unavailable for a comeback as he is presently abroad for treatment due to an injured ankle. Meanwhile, the fitness status of Ravindra Jadeja, recognized as one of the finest all-rounders of his era, is uncertain. Moreover, Virat Kohli, the former captain of India who withdrew from the initial two matches citing personal reasons, is not expected to rejoin the squad for the third Test as per the reports.
