As India gears up for a crucial fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, starting July 23, the team management faces a mix of good news and concern regarding their pace attack. Star bowler Jasprit Bumrah is highly likely to feature in the playing XI, while young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh has sustained an injury during a practice session.
Jasprit Bumrah Set for Manchester Return
In a significant boost for the Indian side, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return for the Manchester Test. India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hinted strongly at Bumrah’s inclusion, stating that with the series on the line, there is a “leaning towards playing him.”
Bumrah was rested for the second Test in Edgbaston as part of his workload management, a plan that was put in place before the series began, allowing him to play a maximum of three Tests out of five. He played the first Test at Headingley and then made a strong comeback in the third Test at Lord’s, where he picked up a crucial five-wicket haul. His presence will undoubtedly bolster India’s bowling attack as they look to level the series, currently trailing 2-1.
Arshdeep Singh Sustains Hand Injury
However, the good news regarding Bumrah is tempered by an injury concern for promising left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. Arshdeep sustained a cut on his bowling hand during a net session in Manchester while attempting to stop a shot. The severity of the cut is being assessed by the medical team, and it remains unclear whether he will require stitches.
While Arshdeep is yet to make his Test debut, he was considered a potential option for the playing XI, especially if the team decided to rest another frontline pacer. His injury could complicate India’s bowling combination plans for the crucial encounter.
Series Context and Upcoming Fixtures
The five-match Test series, part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship, has seen England lead 2-1 after three matches. England won the first Test in Leeds and the third Test at Lord’s, while India secured a commanding victory in the second Test at Edgbaston.
The fourth Test at Old Trafford is scheduled from July 23 to July 27, followed by the fifth and final Test at The Oval in London from July 31 to August 4. India will be keen to bounce back in Manchester and keep their hopes of winning the “Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy” alive.
