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.
