According to former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, the team doctor will make the ultimate decision over Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the fourth Test match at Old Trafford in Manchester. With a 1-2 deficit in the current five-match Test series, India is in a difficult position.
In order to control his workload, the Indian team management had declared prior to the series that Bumrah will only play in three of the five Test matches. Bumrah has participated in the first and third Test matches thus far. With two games left and India losing the third Test at Lord’s, Bumrah’s availability for the pivotal fourth Test is now in doubt.
“To be honest, I believe it is a doctor’s call. I am aware of my body. My doctor is someone I know. I am aware of the instructions he is giving me on how to play the game. Thus, in my opinion, Bumrah is a legend. Considering his achievement at Lord’s and the fact that he registered for the Lord’s Honours Board, I believe he understands his workload and self-management,” Suresh Raina remarked.
However, Suresh Raina highlighted how crucial Bumrah’s inclusion in the starting lineup is, saying that if India is to make a significant series comeback, both Bumrah and Rishabh Pant must be playing.
Pant is also battling injury issues. He had to quit the pitch during the Lord’s Test after suffering a finger injury while taking wickets. Dhruv Jurel took over the wicketkeeping responsibilities while he was away. Pant batted in both innings despite his injury.
“Rishabh Pant also sustained a finger injury. Therefore, playing their fourth Test is crucial for both of them. Raina stated, “I think it will be very important for both of them to feature in the fourth Test if they have to try to win the game or draw the series.”
The selection of the Indian team is made more difficult by the fact that several players are dealing with niggles. Anshul Kamboj was just recruited to the Indian team to replace Arshdeep Singh, who was unable to play. Furthermore, Akash Deep is still doubtful for the forthcoming game due to a groin ailment. With the fourth Test starting on July 23, India has a crucial chance to tie the series.
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