India will be without their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the crucial fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England at The Oval in London.
The BCCI medical team has advised Bumrah to sit out the match as part of a workload management strategy, despite the high stakes with India trailing 1-2 in the series.
Bumrah, who has taken 14 wickets in three matches during the tour, was always scheduled to play only three of the five Tests, as per a pre-decided plan by the team management, selectors, and medical staff. He featured in the first Test at Headingley, missed the second at Edgbaston (which India won), and returned for the third and fourth matches at Lord’s and Old Trafford.
A report from a sports portal on Tuesday confirmed that the decision aligns with long-term injury prevention efforts, particularly to protect Bumrah’s back. The BCCI’s medical team has reiterated that this plan, formulated in consultation with Bumrah and the team management, prioritizes his long-term fitness.
While there was some expectation that Bumrah might play the final match—especially with no bowling duties since the fourth morning in Manchester—those hopes were dashed. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had even hinted at Bumrah’s availability, fueling speculation.
However, Bumrah’s heavy workload on slow and unresponsive pitches throughout the series contributed to the decision. In the fourth Test, he bowled 33 overs and returned figures of 2 for 100. The BCCI medical team believes that resting him now is a prudent step to ensure his sustained performance across upcoming assignments.
India will now face England in the final Test starting Friday without their most experienced fast bowler, needing a win to draw the series 2-2.
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