Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss Bangladesh Tests; Arshdeep enters fray
What's the story
Jasprit Bumrah, India's strike pacer, may not participate in the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh in September. This strategic move by the team management aims to solidify the Indian fast-bowling unit. The potential replacements for Bumrah are left-arm pacers Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed, who could add a unique twist to the pace attack. Notably, Bumrah was also rested for the recently-concluded white-ball leg in Sri Lanka.
Replacements
Arshdeep, Khaleel front-runners to replace Bumrah
As mentioned, Arshdeep and Khaleel could fill Bumrah's shoes in the Test series against Bangladesh. The former, who was the top wicket-taker in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup and has demonstrated his skills in both T20Is and ODIs, could be favored for his Test debut. This selection strategy is part of a broader plan to diversify India's pace-bowling unit with a left-arm seam and swing bowler.
Rest
Bumrah's rest strategic move for future matches
The BCCI would want Bumrah to be at his best in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. The Indian pacer's workload management is imperative as he is prone to injuries. "In the case of Bumrah, he knows his body the best and it will be up to him if he wants to play in the Tests against Bangladesh," a BCCI source told PTI.
Future
Team India's plans for Arshdeep
The potential absence of Bumrah could be an ideal opportunity for Arshdeep to showcase his skills in the longest format of the game. Former India head coach Rahul Dravid had previously expressed plans for Singh to transition into red-ball cricket. This led to Arshdeep gaining experience by playing several County games for Kent last year.
Challenges
Upcoming challenges and goals
Following a defeat in the away ODI series against Sri Lanka, Team India is determined to return to the winning track as they resume their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) campaign. Bumrah has been enjoying a well-deserved break after India's victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. He was adjudged the Player of the Tournament, finishing with 15 wickets at 8.27.