India pacer Mohammed Siraj has confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah will be part of the playing XI for the upcoming fifth and final Test against England at Manchester, putting an end to speculation about the star fast bowler’s workload management. Bumrah, who had featured in the first and third Tests of the series, was rested for the second Test and missed the fourth at Edgbaston. His availability for the decisive Manchester Test had become a major point of discussion among fans and cricket experts, with many, including Anil Kumble, urging the team management to field their pace spearhead for the crucial clash.
“Jassi (Bumrah) bhai will play only, that’s what we know for now,” Siraj stated. However, he added that the final team combination was still being deliberated upon, noting, “The combination is changing day by day… our only plan is to bowl in good areas because England’s batting was very patient in the last game. Now it feels like real Test cricket.”
Bumrah has been exceptional so far in the series, claiming 12 wickets in just two matches, including two five-wicket hauls. His return bolsters India's bowling attack as they seek to close out the series.
When asked about the team lineup, Siraj was non-committal, saying that he was unaware of the final decisions being made and trusted the management to choose what’s best for the team.
On Akash Deep, who made an impressive debut in the third Test, Siraj revealed that the Bengal pacer is nursing a groin niggle and is currently being assessed by the physios. “He bowled in the morning, but we haven’t got any updates from the physios yet,” he said. As a precaution, India has brought in Haryana’s Anshul Kamboj as cover. Siraj also mentioned that Arshdeep Singh is unavailable due to a hand injury.
India and England are currently level at 2-2 in the five-match Test series. The Manchester Test, starting this Friday, will serve as the decider, with both sides pushing for a series win.
