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Jasprit Bumrah Absent for Ranchi Test Against England: As Team India reached Ranchi, one noticeable absence was star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has been a constant threat to England. As reported earlier, Bumrah won’t be part of the fourth Test, as selectors and team management gave him a break to manage his workload. Now, India’s think-tank is deciding on his replacement in the playing XI.
Jasprit Bumrah Absent for Ranchi Test Against England
In the previous selection committee meeting, selectors highlighted the need to rest Bumrah, considering the upcoming IPL, T20 World Cup, and other significant events. Although Bumrah wished to play all five Tests, the team management and selectors advised him to skip the Ranchi Test, preserving him for the crucial final game in Dharamsala.
In the series so far, Bumrah, rather than the spinners, has been the tormentor for England with his lethal reverse-swing. With India entering a Test without him, the focus is now on his replacement.
Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah Absent for Ranchi Test Against England
The decision might hinge on the pitch conditions in Ranchi. India, known for selecting traditional slow pitches that deteriorate as the Test progresses, is contemplating a turner for the first time in the series.
If that’s the case, India might bring in Washington Sundar or Axar Patel for Bumrah to bolster the batting lineup. Ranchi, like the previous venues, has black soil pitches, and the pitch preparation seems to follow the pattern seen in Hyderabad, Vizag, and Rajkot. However, if India opts for a turner, the groundstaff can adjust the watering accordingly.
For the pace-bowling slot alongside Mohammed Siraj, India has Mukesh Kumar and uncapped Akash Deep as options. However, Mukesh struggled on a flat deck in Vizag. With a 2-1 lead, India is cautious not to lose momentum, especially since Dharamsala could favor England due to the conditions.
Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah Absent for Ranchi Test Against England
Considering Akash Deep’s good performance against England Lions, playing an extra spinner is being considered, although it comes with its risks for a newcomer in Bazball. Even at Vizag, where Siraj was rested, the initial plan to play Washington changed, and Mukesh was chosen.
Whether or not it’s a turner, India believes adding another spinner would strengthen the team, with both Washington and Axar being reliable with the bat. India is hesitant about a rank turner due to the inexperienced batting unit. The final decision will likely come when head coach Rahul Dravid assesses the pitch on Wednesday afternoon.
India’s Squad for the 4th Test
Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.
Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah Absent for Ranchi Test Against England
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