Jonathan Trott explains why Jasprit Bumrah struggled in the Manchester Test

England maintained their lead after Day 3 of the fourth Test in Manchester with a superb innings from Joe Root. Manjrekar and Jonathan Trott examined India’s bowling issues, Jasprit Bumrah‘s solo fight, Root’s changing strategy, and Day 4’s potential.

Manjrekar examined India’s Day 3 issues and Shubman Gill’s leadership under pressure. Former batsman said Gill and India’s hands are tied because to the huge list of absentees, especially going into the fourth Test. India will miss Akash Deep (groin) in Manchester and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy (knee) for the rest of the series.

Rishabh Pant injured his toe and couldn’t keep wickets in Manchester, affecting the visitors. In the third Test at Lord’s, India relied on Dhruv Jurel’s glovework due to Pant’s fitness difficulties. In the fourth game, pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj were also disturbed, but not enough to keep them out.

“Shubman Gill is making his England debut as a batter and captain, a huge responsibility. He played well in the first three Tests, but India’s obstacles and resources make this game feel beyond them. Akash Deep, who took 10 wickets in the last Test, was injured and missed the match. On JioHotsar, Manjrekar said Anshul Kamboj difficult to adapt to Test cricket.

India should have improved their bowling combination—seamers bowled over 82 overs for three wickets, while spin took four in 52. They must reevaluate that. Mohammed Siraj stood out—it was fantastic to see him bowl with such heart to the end,” he said.

Bumrah had good spots but was unlucky: Jonathan Trott

Trott credited Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling performance to the opposite end’s lack of pressure.

“Bumrah was unlucky, but his areas were good and his economy reflects that. Both-end pressure is the major issue. Bumrah thrives with help, but not today. Control from both ends is vital when your bowling unit is slightly below standard, like India. I would have loved Bumrah to bowl with Washington or Kuldeep spin to increase pressure. Bumrah’s pressure didn’t apply to England’s hitters because runs kept coming from the other side.

Trott praised England batter Joe Root’s maturity and attitude for his 150-run innings.

Joe Root abandoned Bazball experiments: Jonathan Trott

Joe Root’s method is solid—he doesn’t change gears too much. After joining, Bazball experimented with ramping seamers and reverse scoops, but he’s since abandoned them. He has a balanced approach, maybe including some parts from that expansive phase, but he keeps to what works for him. Root digs in, takes guard, and mentally commits to bat through the day when the opposition—like India today—isn’t demanding enough. He need a high-quality delivery to reject him, something India couldn’t do today. He has 150 more, and as I said, he’s improving with each knock.”

India won’t consider a draw: Sanjon Manrekar

Manjrekar discussed India’s intent and English bowling threats on Day 4 at Old Trafford.

“India won’t think of a draw—they’ll hope for the sun to pile on runs and pressure England. The surface bounces unevenly, making bowling difficult. Ben Stokes will need to bowl many overs even though Chris Woakes is less effective. If the ball stays low, Jofra Archer’s towering action and stump-targeting abilities may be devastating. And watch out for Liam Dawson—not for unplayable deliveries, but for his important part in England’s bowling strategy.”