The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has decided Jasprit Bumrah, their key fast bowler, will sit out the fourth Test against England. This match starts February 23 at JSCA Stadium in Ranchi. The step aims to control Bumrah’s playing time, considering he played the first three matches.
Jasprit Bumrah came back as the top player, taking 17 wickets in three Tests at an average of 13.65. He has notably bowled 80.5 overs. His performance has proved challenging for England’s captain, Ben Stokes, and Joe Root in the matches till date.
The BCCI issued the following statement:
“Jasprit Bumrah has been released from the squad for the 4th IDFC First Bank Test against England in Ranchi. The decision was taken keeping in mind the duration of the series and amount of cricket he has played in recent times.”
BCCI Official
With Jasprit Bumrah not present, Mohammad Siraj assumes responsibilities for the home team in speeding deliveries. Siraj, born in Hyderabad, proved his skills with successful bowling in the initial innings of the third England Test, securing four wickets.
Mukesh Kumar replaces injured KL Rahul in India’s squad for fourth Test against England
KL Rahul, a middle-order hitter, again couldn’t break through for the fourth Test versus England. His hamstring injury during the Hyderabad Test led to him being absent from the second and third Tests.
The BCCI issued the following statement:
“KL Rahul is ruled out of the 4th Test. His participation in the final Test match in Dharamsala is subject to fitness.”
Earlier, the cricket authority reported KL Rahul’s rehab at Bengaluru’s National Cricket Academy (NCA). His participation in Dharamsala’s fifth Test, scheduled for March 7-11, is doubtful.
Meanwhile, Mukesh Kumar has returned to the side after being rested for the third Test at Rajkot. The BCCI statement reads:
“Mukesh Kumar, who was released from the squad for the third Test in Rajkot, has joined the squad in Ranchi.”
The speedster took one wicket in the second Test against England, his sole game of the series thus far.