Bumrah’s Return Under Review as India Preps for Manchester Test

July 18, 2025 - The ongoing Test series between India and England has reached an important stage. In this situation, the team management may "bet" on Jasprit Bumrah for the fourth Test, which will start on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester. However, Indian team's assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate said the final decision about Bumrah's selection will be taken a day before the match.

Before the series began, coach Gautam Gambhir had clearly said Bumrah would play only three matches in the series to manage his workload. So far, Bumrah has played in the Leeds and Lord’s Tests, and was rested for the Birmingham Test.

After the defeat at Lord’s, the Indian team does not want to take any risk in Manchester. Because of this, it is believed the team may change its plan and include Bumrah in the playing XI. The Indian team also took part in a practice session in Beckenham on Thursday July 17.

Doeschate said, “We will take the final decision in Manchester. Bumrah is available for one of the last two Tests. Since the series is at a crucial stage, his chances of playing are high. But we have to consider many things — like how many days of play are possible, which team combination gives us the best chance to win, and also keep the Oval Test in mind.”

Siraj’s Workload Also a Concern

Mohammed Siraj has bowled 109 overs in the series and taken 13 wickets so far.

Doeschate said, “It is great to have a fast bowler like Siraj. He gives his all and never holds back. So, it’s important to manage his workload properly to keep him fit. We are thinking about a combination with both Siraj and Bumrah. But Arshdeep’s injury has made the situation more complicated. The final decision will be made in Manchester.”

Every Bowler Has a Different Style

Doeschate compared Ben Stokes’ 105 overs to Bumrah and Siraj. He said, “Ben has been inspiring, but every bowler has their own style. Bumrah performs better in short spells. Siraj finds his rhythm in the 7th or 8th over. So we need to plan based on each bowler’s strength and what the team needs.”

Bowling Coach Morkel Joins Practice

During practice, bowling coach Morne Morkel was seen bowling to the players during practice. Owing to Arshdeep’s injury and Akash Deep not bowling, Morkel stepped in to give variety to the batsmen. Doeschate said, “Morkel is a tall and fast bowler. Practicing against him helps the batsmen face challenging deliveries.”

Pant Ready to Keep Again

Rishabh Pant played the Lord’s Test with a finger injury. He is now recovering.

Doeschate said, “He batted with pain in the third Test. His fingers are healing. We want to avoid changing the wicketkeeper in the middle of a match. So, we are giving Pant as much rest as possible and hope he will be ready from Day 1 in Manchester.”

Team Morale Still Strong

Despite back-to-back defeats, Doeschate said the team’s confidence is still strong. “It may sound strange when you’re behind 2-1 in the series, but the players are doing well. Most of the batsmen are in good form, including Karun Nair. We want more runs from the top order. Our focus is on improving small mistakes that cost us the game.”