In a bid to manage his workload ahead of a packed schedule, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was rested for the fourth Test against England in Ranchi. However, the vice-captain is all set to rejoin the squad for the crucial series-ending Test in Dharamsala.
Jasprit Bumrah Back In Action For Final Test.
Bumrah’s absence in Ranchi saw Bengal seamer Akash Deep taking his place in the playing XI. Despite missing out on the fourth Test, Bumrah’s stellar performance in the series so far, with 17 wickets at an average of 13.64, underscores his importance to the Indian team.
With the final Test expected to favor fast bowlers, Bumrah’s return will bolster India’s pace attack, alongside the likes of Mohammed Siraj and Mukesh Kumar, who are also available for selection.
However, it’s not all good news for India, as senior batter KL Rahul has officially been ruled out of the Test series due to a quadriceps injury. Rahul, who had been struggling with the injury since the series opener in Hyderabad, failed to fully recover and was sent to London for expert consultation.
Rahul’s injury, stemming from his right quadriceps, which he underwent surgery for last year, has caused stiffness and discomfort. Given his crucial role in the team and the risk involved, the BCCI, selectors, and team management have decided not to take any chances with his fitness.
India’s updated squad for the 5th Test: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.
In another development, all-rounder Washington Sundar has been released from the squad to participate in the Ranji Trophy semifinal for Tamil Nadu against Mumbai. However, Sundar remains on standby and will rejoin the Test squad in Dharamsala after the completion of the domestic fixture.
As the stage is set for the series finale in Dharamsala, India will look to regroup and put their best foot forward with the return of Bumrah, while also managing the absence of key players like KL Rahul.
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