Xtra Time Web Desk: There have been speculations that Team India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah might be rested for the upcoming third Test against England in Rajkot which gets underway from February 15, citing workload management as the reason. Despite India’s impressive 106-run win in the second Test in Vizag, where Bumrah played a crucial role, the talks about the pace spearhead being rested has raised eyebrows, especially with the series tied at 1-1.
During England’s first innings in Vizag, Bumrah claimed 6-45 and followed it up with 3-46 in the second. His stellar performance was instrumental in India’s success, earning him the Player-of-the-Match award. With 15 wickets at an astonishing average of 10.66 in the series so far, he has been a standout performer, defying challenging pitch conditions.
The nine-day gap between Tests should provide ample time for Bumrah to rest and recover, unless there is a genuine injury concern. While workload management is essential, playing without Bumrah in such a crucial series could potentially hand the initiative to England.
The upcoming squad announcement for the next Tests adds to the intrigue. The rumor of Bumrah’s potential rest might be a strategic move, possibly aimed at keeping the opponents guessing.
Considering Bumrah’s recent return from a lower-back stress-induced hiatus in 2022-23, it is understandable that preserving him is a priority for Indian cricket. However, given the player’s commitment to Test cricket and the significance of the ongoing series, his absence could have significant implications for India’s chances. The cricketing world awaits the official announcement to shed light on whether Bumrah will indeed be rested or if this is just a part of the mind games.
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