theglobalsun – India’s captain Shubman Gill left the door open for Jasprit Bumrah to play in the final Test against England at The Oval. Before the series, India stated Bumrah would be limited to three Tests due to fitness concerns. He has completed that quota but a win in the final match could secure a 2-2 series draw for India. Gill said, “If he feels fully fit and available for us, it would be a great boost.” However, he also emphasized India’s bowling depth if Bumrah cannot play. Bumrah is currently the highest wicket-taker in the series with 14 wickets.
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Despite his success, Bumrah showed signs of reduced pace and effectiveness during the drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford. He conceded 112 runs in 33 overs, taking two wickets. Earlier this year, Bumrah struggled with a back injury, which influenced India’s decision to limit his Test workload.
Former England captain Alastair Cook praised Gill for keeping Bumrah’s status confidential, especially as the crucial fifth Test is about to start. Cook argued that revealing Bumrah’s fitness status prematurely could have compromised India’s tactical plans. “If he isn’t fit to play, not playing is the right decision,” Cook said. India’s cautious approach reflects their commitment to Bumrah’s long-term fitness and effectiveness.
Gill confirmed that seamer Akash Deep will return for the Oval Test after missing the fourth match due to a groin injury. However, India’s wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant will miss the final Test because of a broken foot he sustained during the fourth Test at Old Trafford. Pant suffered the injury attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes and retired hurt after scoring 37. He returned to bat and added to his score, reaching 54 before leaving the game again. India called up uncapped wicketkeeper Narayan Jagadeesan as cover for Pant.
Coach Gautam Gambhir praised Pant’s courage, saying batting with a broken foot is legendary. Gambhir also supported introducing injury replacements in Test cricket beyond the current concussion rule, highlighting the growing need for flexibility in player substitutions.
India’s Resilience at Old Trafford Sets Stage for Final Battle
India staged a remarkable comeback to secure a draw in the fourth Test, keeping the series competitive. Facing a 311-run deficit in their second innings and losing two quick wickets on day four, India’s batsmen showed resilience and determination.Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar all scored centuries in a remarkable partnership that lifted India to 425 for 4. This lead of 114 runs forced a draw with 10 overs left on the final day.
Gill described the result as “no less than a win” and praised the team’s fighting spirit. The draw kept England’s series lead at 2-1 but ensured India remained firmly in contention. India now heads to The Oval with renewed confidence and the chance to salvage a series draw. The potential return of Bumrah could strengthen the bowling attack significantly.
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The final Test, starting Thursday, promises intense competition with both teams aiming for a positive result. India’s ability to manage player fitness, especially Bumrah’s, will be crucial in the series outcome. Gill’s balanced approach—hoping for Bumrah’s availability but prepared without him—shows strategic depth. Meanwhile, the team will rely on key players like Jadeja and Sundar to continue their fight. As the series reaches its climax, cricket fans worldwide will watch closely to see if Bumrah can deliver for India once again. His participation could tip the scales in this thrilling contest.
