Jasprit Bumrah's Birmingham Test Fate: India Weighs Workload vs. Series Impact

The Indian cricket team faces a crucial decision regarding Jasprit Bumrah's participation in the second Test against England, commencing on July 2nd.

Jasprit Bumrah of India (AP Photo/Scott Heppell)

Prior to the five-match series, it was agreed that Bumrah, the key seamer, would participate in only three Tests to effectively manage his physical condition and workload. The specific matches were not disclosed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Bumrah himself confirmed this plan in an interview, and head coach Gautam Gambhir reiterated it after the Leeds Test.

Having bowled 44 overs in the Headingley Test, Bumrah and the team management must carefully consider his workload during their two-day break in Birmingham. The short turnaround between the second and third Tests presents a significant challenge. Playing him in Birmingham would likely rule him out of the Lord's Test, which starts on July 10th, due to the limited recovery time.

Gambhir indicated that the series scoreline wouldn't influence the decision on Bumrah's availability. The primary factor will be managing his workload for future matches. This suggests the second Test in Birmingham could be the designated rest period for the star bowler.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri acknowledged the difficulty of this decision. The temptation to field Bumrah in Birmingham to level the series, while also keeping him fresh for Lord's, is strong.

"Bumrah said he'll play three Test matches. Now, which of the three he'll play, that's, you know, another question to be asked. I think if he takes a break, it'll be the next one, because he'll definitely want to play at Lord's, right? And there's a break, and then you go into Lord's," Shastri commented.

If Bumrah sits out the Birmingham Test to ensure he's fit for Lord's, the immediate concern shifts to who will replace him. India's bowling attack lacked penetration in the first Test, even with Bumrah in the lineup.

Stuart Broad, the former England fast bowler, has suggested Arshdeep Singh as a potential replacement. Calls for Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion are also growing due to his unique skillset. The Indian team's decision in the coming days will reveal whether a revamped bowling attack will take the field in Birmingham.

IND vs ENG Series Schedule:

• 1st Test: England v India, 20-24 June 2025, Headingley, Leeds – England won by 5 wickets
• 2nd Test: England v India, 2-6 July 2025, Edgbaston, Birmingham
• 3rd Test: England v India, 10-14 July 2025, Lord’s, London
• 4th Test: England v India, 23-27 July 2025, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester
• 5th Test: England v India, 31 July-4 August 2025, Kia Oval, London