Bumrah Expected to Boost India's Chances in Pivotal Manchester Test

Jasprit Bumrah is expected to play in the crucial fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Old Trafford, according to his bowling partner Mohammed Siraj. This news comes as the series reaches a critical juncture.

Moahmmed Siraj has stated that Bumrah will play the Old Trafford © Getty

Speculation surrounding Bumrah's participation has been a constant throughout the series, fueled by a pre-arranged agreement limiting him to three of the five Tests to manage his workload.

With India currently trailing 1-2, the pressure is on, making Bumrah's inclusion in the Manchester Test feel almost inevitable. The nine-day break since the Lord's Test on July 14 has further solidified this expectation.

On Monday morning, Bumrah engaged in an extended discussion with chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. He subsequently participated in a shorter-than-usual bowling session in the nets before practicing his batting.

The weather forecast for Old Trafford predicts rain on three of the five days, potentially reducing Bumrah's bowling workload. This could pave the way for him to also play in the final Test at The Oval, commencing just three days after the Manchester match concludes.

India's bowling attack from the Lord's Test is likely to undergo at least one change, with Akash Deep currently nursing a groin injury. While he bowled with a shortened run-up during the main session, he did not participate in the nets. A final decision on his inclusion will be made within 24 hours, but contingency plans are already being considered.

To bolster the pace attack, Anshul Kamboj, a 24-year-old Haryana quick, has been added to the squad. Kamboj impressed for India 'A' against the England Lions last month, taking five wickets. Despite arriving in Manchester only on Sunday, he quickly joined the team and bowled with the new ball in the nets, closely observed by Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel.

Prasidh Krishna, who featured in the first two Tests, is also in contention for a place. Although his economy rate of 5.33 runs per over is not particularly flattering, his performance in the Old Trafford nets, where he troubled Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Sai Sudharsan, has been encouraging.

Amidst the injury concerns, there was positive news regarding Rishabh Pant. He appears to have recovered from the injury that prevented him from keeping wickets for most of the Lord's Test. He participated in slip-catching drills and batted without any apparent discomfort.

If doubts persist about Pant's ability to keep wickets for the entire five days, Dhruv Jurel may be brought in as a replacement for the injured Nitish Reddy. However, if Pant is cleared to resume keeping duties, Sai Sudharsan, who impressed in the nets, could be given another opportunity to build on his debut at Headingley.