Jasprit Bumrah, the lead Indian pacemaker, may sit out the next fourth Test in Ranchi, managing his workload, stated by a Cricbuzz report. Depending on the penultimate game’s result, this report inferred his play in Dharamsala’s final fifth Test.
Team leaders had planned a break for Jasprit Bumrah in the third Test in Rajkot. However, they chose for him to take part in one more round before he got his well-earned rest.
Jasprit Bumrah, the series’ highest wicket-taker with 17 wickets at an average of 13.64, has bowled nearly 81 overs thus far. Given his injury history, it appears like management made a wise decision.
In this piece, we will examine at three possible names that might make the starting XI if Jasprit Bumrah is rested for the fourth Test in Ranchi.
1. Mukesh Kumar
Mukesh Kumar, who had recently been fostered by the management in all forms, was released from the third Test to play in the Ranji match for Bengal against Bihar, in which he took ten wickets.
However, Mukesh’s figures do not inspire confidence in India, as he bowls too many inconsistent lines, allowing nearly four runs per over in Vizag.
There’s a solid chance he’ll be deemed Jasprit Bumrah’s stand-in, even bagging a slot in the first eleven. Mohammed Shami not playing opens a second opportunity for Mukesh to create an impact and validate his selection.
2. Akash Deep
If the squad decides to test out someone other than Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, another Bengal pacer, may be the choice. He has helped him smash batting lineups in the Ranji Trophy in recent years.
Akash possesses a firm seam and a rapid arm twist that causes the ball to slip through and pushes the hitter off the deck. It allows him to bother hitters with his stock delivery that comes in.
Akash also has experience sharing the new ball with his RCB teammate Mohammed Siraj, which may prompt the management to consider his name.
1. Washington Sundar
This name may surprise many. However, in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, if the management decides to boost the batting and target English hitters with spin, Washington Sundar might be an attractive option.
With the SG ball, with its fresh and solid stitches, a spinner may be able to generate more revolutions, as seen by Ravichandran Ashwin’s success throughout his career. Management may also consider the odd option of replacing a pacer with a spin bowling all-rounder.