Cricket

India Weighs Rotation Options as Bumrah Likely to Miss Fifth Test

The Indian team management is expected to rest pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the fifth and final Test, following the medical team’s recommendation to manage his workload. Bumrah, who has already played three matches in the ongoing series, was slated for a limited role from the outset to avoid overburdening him.

Although batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed that the fast bowler is fit, he hinted at the need for caution. “Bumrah is fit now, and he bowled in one innings in the previous match, so the head coach, physio and the captain will come together and decide. We are yet to make the decision,” Kotak told reporters.

With Bumrah’s participation unlikely, attention has turned to India’s bench strength. Left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh, who has impressed in limited-overs cricket, could make his Test debut, with sources suggesting he might replace Anshul Kamboj. 

Akash Deep, who missed the previous game due to injury, also looked sharp in training and could step in if the management decides to give Mohammed Siraj — who has played all four Tests so far — a much-needed break.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir, speaking after the drawn second Test in Manchester, had confirmed that all pacers were fit. During Tuesday’s optional training session, Arshdeep and Akash bowled in tandem, signaling the team’s intent to rotate its fast-bowling resources.

Meanwhile, the spin department could also see a shake-up. Kuldeep Yadav, who has not featured in the series yet, had an extended conversation with Gambhir during practice. Historically, The Oval pitch has offered assistance to wrist-spinners, and the management may consider drafting Kuldeep into the XI by leaving out Shardul Thakur to bolster the spin attack.

Kotak remained cautious about confirming changes, noting that final decisions would depend on the surface. “A decision will be taken on the eve of the game after assessing the surface,” he said.

As India look to balance fitness management with tactical flexibility, the potential debuts and rotations underline the depth in the squad. The final Test at The Oval not only presents a chance to seal the series but also to prepare fringe players for future challenges. Whether or not Bumrah plays, India’s focus appears firmly on maintaining both intensity and longevity across formats.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Khalid Jamil appointed head coach of Indian men’s football team

Khalid Jamil has been appointed as the head coach of India’s men’s football team, AIFF… Read More

August 1, 2025

Barry Cowan picks Novak Djokovic to challenge Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at Grand Slams

Top tennis commentator Barry Cowan has picked Novak Djokovic to challenge Jannik Sinner and Carlos… Read More

August 1, 2025

Serena Williams’ former coach tells Carlos Alcaraz what he can change to improve his game ahead of the US Open

Serena Williams’ former coach Rick Macci has advised Carlos Alcaraz to switch to platform stance… Read More

August 1, 2025

Sanjay Bangar hails Karun Nair’s knock, says he knew this could well be his last opportunity

Former Indian all-rounder Sanjay Bangar showered praise on Karun Nair after he scored a gutsy… Read More

August 1, 2025

Navjot Singh Sidhu hails Sai Sudharsan as the future of Indian cricket

Former Indian Test opener Navjot Singh Sidhu has tipped Sai Sudharsan as the future of… Read More

August 1, 2025

Ravichandran Ashwin slams Yashasvi Jaiswal after Indian opener’s dismissal on opening day of 5th Test against England

Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin slammed Yashasvi Jaiswal after the left-hander was dismissed cheaply on… Read More

August 1, 2025