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Jasprit Bumrah Likely to Feature in Manchester Test, Says Ryan ten Doeschate
India’s Bowling Plans Take Shape Ahead of Crucial Fourth Test
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has strongly hinted that Jasprit Bumrah is set to return for the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. In a pre-match press conference, ten Doeschate acknowledged that while the final call will be made closer to the game, India is “leaning towards playing him” considering the series is very much on the line.
Bumrah, who has been rested as part of a workload management plan, is expected to play three of the five Tests. With only two matches left, his inclusion in Manchester appears increasingly likely.
Bumrah’s Return Considered Crucial for Series Outcome
The five-match Test series is delicately poised, and the fourth Test at Manchester could prove to be the decider. Ten Doeschate emphasized the importance of taking a holistic view across both remaining Tests — Manchester and The Oval — but acknowledged that Bumrah’s presence could be vital in swinging the series in India’s favour.
“We know we’ve got him for one of the last two Tests. It’s pretty obvious the series is on the line in Manchester, so there will be a leaning towards playing him,” ten Doeschate said.
He also pointed out that the final decision will depend on pitch conditions, expected playing days, and weather forecasts.
Related Article: India’s Bowling Depth and the Role of Bumrah in Overseas Conditions
Mohammed Siraj’s Workload Under Scrutiny
India Faces Dilemma Over Pace Rotation
While Bumrah’s return is a boost, India is now carefully monitoring Mohammed Siraj, who has bowled in all three Tests so far. Ten Doeschate praised Siraj’s intensity and resilience, describing him as someone with “the heart of a lion.”
However, he also acknowledged the need to manage his workload efficiently to avoid fatigue or injury during the last two games.
“He doesn’t always get the returns you expect, but he brings energy and always looks like something’s going to happen when he bowls. We need to manage him well,” said ten Doeschate.
Injury Concerns Add to India’s Selection Headaches
Arshdeep Singh Suffers Hand Injury During Practice
India’s bowling combination might be further affected by Arshdeep Singh’s injury, sustained during practice while attempting to stop a ball. The left-arm pacer has suffered a cut on his hand, and the medical team is currently assessing the severity.
“If he needs stitches or doesn’t, that’s going to be important to our planning,” ten Doeschate confirmed.
Rishabh Pant Recovery Being Closely Monitored
Adding to India’s concerns is Rishabh Pant’s finger injury, sustained during the previous Test while keeping wickets. He did not keep for the rest of the match and was visibly uncomfortable while batting.
“He batted with pain in the third Test… keeping is the last part of the recovery. We don’t want to replace a keeper midway again,” ten Doeschate explained.
Backup wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel remains in the equation, but if Pant is fit, he is expected to take on both keeping and batting responsibilities.
Final XI To Be Confirmed Closer to Match Day
With so many moving pieces — including injuries, bowling rotations, and pitch conditions — India will finalize their playing XI only after close assessment in Manchester.
The fourth Test is expected to be a turning point in the series, and India will look to field their strongest side to gain an upper hand against England.
India vs England 2025: Latest Team and Injury Updates – ESPNcricinfo
As the high-stakes Manchester Test approaches, Jasprit Bumrah’s likely return is a significant boost for Team India. However, fitness concerns around Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Rishabh Pant add complexity to India’s strategy. The final selection will depend on last-minute assessments, but India is expected to go all out in what could be the series-defining match.
