Published: Jul 18, 2025, 04:42 PM (IST)
Edited: Jul 18, 2025, 04:42 PM (IST)
As the crucial fourth Test between India and England approaches, player availability and strategic decision-making have shifted to the fore. Spin legend Anil Kumble and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate provided candid insight into the team’s plans, particularly concerning Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion and Mohammed Siraj’s fitness.
According to Anil Kumble, Jasprit Bumrah should play in both remaining Tests. Bumrah’s importance may prove decisive in what could be the series’ final phase, according to the former India captain.
“I would certainly push for Bumrah to play the next game because that’s crucial. If he doesn’t and India end up losing, the series would be done and dusted,” Kumble said on JioHotstar’s Follow the Blues show.
“There is a long break after this. He doesn’t need to play the home series if rest is needed—but right now, he must feature in both.” he said.
Ryan ten Doeschate, India’s assistant coach, reiterated the sentiments of cricket pundits and fans regarding Bumrah’s value, but added that the team is considering multiple factors before finalizing the playing XI.
“We’ll make that call in Manchester. We know we have him for one of the last two Tests, and with the series on the line, Manchester is likely. But we’re looking at the big picture,” Ryan explained.
“We’ll consider the weather, the number of days we might get, and how that affects the match at The Oval,” he added.
He praised Mohammed Siraj’s warrior-like commitment, calling him the emotional engine of India’s pace attack.
“He may not always deliver headline figures, but in terms of heart, he’s like a lion,” he said.
“He never backs down, which makes it all the more important that we manage his workload properly,” he added.
Mohammed Siraj was injured while trying to stop a ball during the previous Test. Even though it is only a cut, the medical team will determine whether stitches are required before making a decision on his selection. For the next match, India’s pace attack will be determined by his fitness and Harshit Rana’s availability.
Rishabh Pant is expected to play again in the upcoming match after playing through pain during the third Test. Team officials are confident he will be able to handle wicketkeeping duties despite a finger injury.
“He’ll bat before the match in Manchester,” said Ryan.
“He played through a lot of pain last time. Now it’s about ensuring he can keep wickets comfortably. We don’t want a repeat of a mid-innings change,” he added.
According to reports, Pant has been given enough rest, and his recovery is in good shape. Dhruv Jurel is on standby in case of setbacks. All signs still point to Pant leading from the front.
