Jasprit Bumrah Rested, Rahul Out for Fourth Test; India Leads Series 2-1
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Test series against England, has been rested for the fourth match starting Feb. 23 in Ranchi due to workload management. Wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul remains sidelined with fitness concerns.
Bumrah, the 30-year-old pace spearhead, has claimed 17 wickets in six innings so far, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) prioritized his well-being for the remainder of the series and beyond.
“The decision was taken keeping in mind the duration of the series and amount of cricket he has played in recent times,” the BCCI said in a statement.
Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian pace attack in Bumrah’s absence. Mukesh Kumar, released from the squad after the third Test, has been recalled as cover.
Rahul, battling fitness issues, missed the previous two Tests and his participation in the final match at Dharamsala remains uncertain.
“Rahul’s participation in the final test in Dharamsala is subject to fitness,” the BCCI added.
India currently hold a 2-1 series lead after victories in the first and third Tests. England won the second match.
The fourth Test in Ranchi, scheduled from Feb. 23-27, will be crucial in determining the series winner. India will aim to seal victory and wrap up the series, while England will be desperate to level the score.
India maintains its lead, but English batters get a breather with Bumrah out. Though Jasprit Bumrah’s absence is a significant blow, it undoubtedly provides a temporary reprieve for the English batters who previously struggled against his exceptional skill and pace.
Sarfaraz Khan capably fills KL Rahul’s shoes, contributing vital half-centuries in both innings of the Rajkot Test. Despite KL Rahul’s ongoing fitness concerns, India has found a capable replacement in Sarfaraz Khan, who impressed with two crucial half-centuries in the third Test.
India’s aggressive approach with both bat and ball proved decisive in the Rajkot victory. Their assertive style was instrumental in securing a resounding win at Rajkot.
This aggressive brand of cricket has effectively countered England’s “Bazball” approach, but England might find renewed hope with Ben Stokes potentially returning to bowling duties in Ranchi.
