In the five-match series between England and India, former English cricketer Ian Bell has stated that he would be shocked if Jasprit Bumrah played just three Test matches. Following the conclusion of the series opener, head coach Gautam Gambhir made the final decision. Bell believed that, if healthy, “the best fast bowler in the world” ought to be in the starting lineup.
If he only participates in three Test matches this summer, I’d be shocked. England will be really thrilled if he doesn’t play because he is the world’s top fast bowler. Bell was quoted by India Today as saying, “Of course you want to protect him, but if the series is on the line and he’s fit, he has to play.”
In order to supplement Ravindra Jadeja in the spin-bowling department, the former top-order batsman argued for the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav.
“Kuldeep bowls exquisitely. A threat is always posed by someone who can spin things both ways, particularly to the lower order in England. India would have to choose between getting Kuldeep Yadav, who is a far better option for taking wickets, or someone like Washington Sundar, who can help Ravindra Jadeja,” Bell continued.
With Bumrah rested, the second Test of the series between the hosts and India has already begun on Wednesday, July 2, at Edgbaston. The pacer was kept out to control his workload and keep him available for the third Test at Lord’s, according to India captain Shubman Gill, who spoke about the decision.
“No, Bumrah. only to control his workload. This is a crucial match for us, and we did receive a nice respite.
After losing the toss at Edgbaston, Gill stated, “But since the third Test is at Lord’s, we think there will be more in that pitch, so we’ll use him there.”
At Headingley, England successfully chased down 371 in the fourth innings, and the Shubman Gill-led team lost by five wickets. Ben Duckett’s incredible 149 was a major factor in their easy ascent to the total. In addition to winning Player of the Match, the left-handed batter scored 62 runs in the first inning.