As the ENG vs IND series continues, India faces the crucial challenge of adapting to the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, their leading fast bowler, for the second Test at Birmingham. Bumrah, who delivered an outstanding performance in the series opener, is doubtful for the match due to workload management.
The 31-year-old, ICC’s top-ranked Test bowler, took five wickets in the first innings but was wicketless in the second innings, playing a pivotal role despite India’s narrow five-wicket defeat.
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Bumrah’s potential omission will significantly impact India’s bowling strategy. In his absence, Arshdeep Singh is likely to step in as the third seamer, bringing his impressive white-ball record into the mix. Arshdeep, India’s leading T20I wicket-taker, has yet to debut in red-ball cricket but has demonstrated exceptional skill in limited-overs formats, making him a promising candidate for the Birmingham pitch.
Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, who both featured prominently in the first ENG vs IND Test, will spearhead the attack. Krishna, IPL 2025’s Purple Cap winner, struggled with run economy but remains a vital part of India’s bowling lineup.
If Bumrah misses out, Kuldeep Yadav is expected to replace Shardul Thakur, adding spin depth to the attack. Kuldeep’s inclusion could provide the much-needed variation and control on the English pitches.
In the batting department, the team management is unlikely to make drastic changes, but there could be a reshuffle to accommodate the new pacer. Nitish Kumar Reddy remains an option, but given the team’s performance in Leeds, India may prefer to retain their core batting lineup.
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The predicted strongest XI for the second ENG vs IND Test, without Jasprit Bumrah:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, B Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (WK), Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj
This lineup balances experience, pace, and spin, aiming to bounce back strongly at Edgbaston. The ENG vs IND series promises an exciting contest as India looks to adapt and strategize for a crucial second Test.