London, July 29, 2025:
India’s pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah will miss the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval from July 31 to August 4. This decision is part of the BCCI’s plan to manage his workload. Bumrah was initially set to play only three Tests in this five-match series to maintain his long-term fitness and ongoing performance. So far, he has taken 14 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls, showing his strong form.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir noted that while there has been no official announcement, the choice is based on long-term planning. “All fast bowlers are fit,” he said. He added that the final XI will be chosen with the best interests of the team and the country in mind.
Squad Shuffle: Siraj Confirmed, Kuldeep Returns
With Bumrah absent, Mohammed Siraj will play, bringing his experience and reverse swing skills to the team. The focus is on who will fill Bumrah’s position. Either Akash Deep, already in the squad, or Arshdeep Singh, who may earn his first Test cap, are likely candidates.
India will also welcome left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav back to the playing XI. His presence adds diversity to the attack, especially against England’s middle order, which has struggled against wrist spin during this series.
Debate Around Rotation Strategy
While many praise the decision to rest Bumrah, it has sparked discussion in cricket circles. Former India pacer Irfan Pathan criticized the rotation plan, saying players should not “pick and choose” key Tests. Conversely, former England fast bowler Steve Harmison commended the move, calling it “great management” considering the strain on fast bowlers in consecutive Tests.
India enters the final match trailing 2-1 in the series and aims to even things up at 2-2. With Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and KL Rahul in good form, and Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav handling spin, India appears ready for a balanced XI.
The stage is set for an exciting finale at The Oval, where Arshdeep could debut, Kuldeep could excel, and India hopes to make a series comeback.