India head coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah will feature in only three of the five Tests in the ongoing England series, as part of a pre-planned workload management strategy. Despite India’s five-wicket loss in the opening Test at Headingley, Gambhir emphasized that the team will not alter its approach based on the result.
Bumrah’s Workload Strategy Remains Unchanged
“To manage his workload is more important. There’s a lot of cricket going forward, and we know what he brings to the table,” Gambhir said at the post-match press conference. “Before we came on this tour, it was already decided that he was going to play three Test matches. We haven’t decided which two other Tests he’s going to play”.
Bumrah was India’s standout bowler in the first innings at Leeds, claiming a five-wicket haul, but went wicketless in the second as England chased down 371 with ease. The team’s decision to rest him for two matches is aimed at preserving his fitness for future assignments.
Patience Urged for Young Bowling Attack
Gambhir also defended India’s relatively inexperienced pace unit, stating that the team is in a transition phase and needs time to build a strong bowling core. “Outside Bumrah and Siraj, we don’t have much experience, but they have quality. We’ve got to keep backing them,” he added.
Captain Gill Echoes Gambhir’s Sentiment
India’s new Test captain Shubman Gill echoed the coach’s views, stating that Bumrah’s participation in upcoming matches will be assessed on a game-by-game basis, depending on his fitness and team requirements.
The second Test of the series begins on July 2 at Edgbaston, with India trailing 0–1 in the five-match series.
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