The highly anticipated 4th Test between India and England is set to commence on July 23rd at Old Trafford, Manchester, with the series currently poised at 2-1 in England’s favor. Following a dramatic 22-run loss at Lord’s, India finds themselves in a must-win situation, adding immense pressure to their team selection, particularly concerning their star pacer, Jasprit Bumrah.
The Jasprit Bumrah Conundrum: Workload Management vs. Series Decider
Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management has been a recurring theme throughout this five-match series. Prior to the tour, India’s team management, including head coach Gautam Gambhir, had explicitly stated that Bumrah would only play three Tests to manage his fitness. He was rested for the second Test at Edgbaston, which incidentally was the only match India has won so far.
Bumrah has been exceptional in the two Tests he’s played, taking 12 wickets at an average of 21 and being the second-highest wicket-taker in the series. His five-wicket haul at Lord’s showcased his match-winning ability. However, with the series on the line, the question of whether to stick to the pre-planned rotation or field their best XI is a significant headache for the Indian camp.
Former Indian cricketers like Irfan Pathan and Anil Kumble have strongly advocated for Bumrah’s inclusion in the Old Trafford Test, emphasizing its crucial nature. Kumble went as far as to say that if Bumrah doesn’t play and India loses, the series would be “done and dusted.” Captain Shubman Gill, while initially stating Bumrah would “definitely” play the 3rd Test, was more circumspect after the Lord’s defeat, simply saying “You’ll get to know soon” when asked about Bumrah’s availability for Old Trafford.
Despite the initial plan, recent reports suggest that Jasprit Bumrah is “all set” to play the 4th Test at Old Trafford, indicating a potential deviation from the original workload management strategy given the high stakes.
India’s Batting Conundrum: The No. 3 Spot
Beyond Bumrah’s availability, India also faces a significant batting conundrum, particularly at the crucial No. 3 position. Karun Nair, who has occupied that spot in the first three Tests, has struggled to convert his starts into big scores, accumulating only 131 runs at an average of 21.83.
Former cricketers are divided on whether Nair should retain his spot. Some, like Anil Kumble, believe he should be given another chance, citing his ability to see off the new ball. However, others, including Deep Dasgupta and Farokh Engineer, are advocating for the inclusion of young left-hander Sai Sudharsan, who has been waiting in the wings since being benched after the first Test. Sudharsan’s youth and potential for long-term investment are key arguments in his favor.
Other Potential Changes
While the focus remains on Bumrah and the No. 3 batter, India might also consider other changes, especially in their bowling attack if Bumrah is rested. Arshdeep Singh, with his county cricket experience, is a strong contender to replace him. There’s also been some discussion around Rishabh Pant’s finger injury, but reports indicate he is fit and available for the Old Trafford Test.
Old Trafford Pitch and Conditions
The Old Trafford pitch is generally known for assisting pace bowlers, especially early on, but can also offer something to spinners as the game progresses. Weather conditions, particularly the risk of rain, could also influence team selections and the overall dynamics of the match.
As India heads into the 4th Test trailing the series, the team management faces critical decisions that could dictate the outcome. The availability of Jasprit Bumrah, a game-changer with the ball, and the stability of the batting lineup, especially at No. 3, will be key factors in their quest to level the series and force a decider at The Oval. The Old Trafford Test promises to be a riveting encounter, with both teams eager to gain a decisive advantage.
