Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested for Rajkot Test

India will now be gearing up to take on England in the third Test of the ongoing five-game series after winning the second game in Visakhapatnam by 106 runs and making it 1-1. The third game will start on February 15 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot.

Jasprit Bumrah, who was the hero in the second Test, is likely to be rested for the third game. As per the latest reports from Cricbuzz, the national selectors have engaged in conversation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to bench the ace speedster, bearing a break will allow him to get refreshed for the final two games. The selectors will be exploring other options that could fill Bumrah’s spot.

Having bowled over 32 overs in two innings, Bumrah showcased his prowess and helped India bundle out England in 253 and 292, respectively. The 30-year-old has claimed a total of nine wickets across the innings for just 91 runs. Notably, his phenomenal performance helped him to emerge as Player of the Match.

Speaking about the opening Test in Hyderabad, where the Rohit Sharma-led side suffered an abrupt setback, falling short by just 28 runs, Bumrah had validated his abilities there as well. Bowling nearly 25 overs, the star fast bowler made a total of six scalps.

Mohammed Siraj, who was benched for the Vizag Test is likely to return for the third game. The right-arm pacer is likely to lead the pace attack in the Rajkot Test before rejoining forces with Bumrah for the final two games which will be held in Ranchi and Dharamsala, respectively.

India’s other pace option Mohammed Shami is not fit to make a comeback as he is currently abroad to undergo treatment after a troubling ankle. Meanwhile, the fitness of Ravindra Jadeja, one of the best all-rounders of his generation, is also dubious. Additionally, former India captain Virat Kohli, who withdrew from the first two games citing personal reasons, is unlikely to join the squad for the third Test.