As the high-stakes fifth Test between India and England draws closer, all eyes are on one big question — Will Jasprit Bumrah play the fifth Test at The Oval? The suspense continues to build as Indian captain Shubman Gill and the team management have refused to give a clear answer, keeping fans and experts guessing. Bumrah’s participation has become a hot topic in the cricketing world, especially considering the series is locked at 2-2 and both sides are preparing for a fierce decider.
Bumrah’s Workload Management: A Long-Term Plan
Jasprit Bumrah has been one of India’s most vital assets in the Test series, delivering match-winning spells and keeping opposition batters under constant pressure. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had planned his workload management carefully due to his recent recovery from a back injury. Ahead of the tour, selectors had hinted that Bumrah would be rested for at least one Test, depending on how the series progressed and how his body held up.
According to team sources, Bumrah was scheduled to play only three to four Tests in this five-match series. With the pacer having already played four high-intensity games, including bowling 33 overs in the Manchester Test, the management is now assessing whether his body can withstand another demanding game.
Shubman Gill: “We’ll Take the Call at the Right Time”
When asked about Bumrah’s availability for the final Test, Indian captain Shubman Gill remained tight-lipped. In a press conference, he said,
“Bumrah is one of our most important bowlers. We will take a decision based on his fitness and workload. We want to make sure he’s at his best when on the field.”
This comment has only increased the suspense. While Gill didn’t rule out Bumrah’s inclusion, he also did not confirm it, clearly indicating that the final call will be taken after fitness assessments.
Team India’s Backup Options
If Jasprit Bumrah is rested for the fifth Test, India does have multiple bowling options to fill the void:
Akash Deep: The young fast bowler impressed in domestic cricket and could be a surprise inclusion.
Arshdeep Singh: Known for his control and swing, Arshdeep offers a left-arm angle that might trouble English batters.
Kuldeep Yadav: If the Oval pitch offers some spin, India could go with three spinners, including Kuldeep along with Jadeja and Ashwin.
The management is also keeping a close eye on weather conditions and pitch behavior before finalizing the bowling lineup.
Bumrah’s Importance in the Series
Jasprit Bumrah has been India’s standout bowler throughout the series. With 19 wickets in four matches, he has consistently delivered breakthroughs, often breaking key partnerships. His ability to reverse swing the old ball, bowl pinpoint yorkers, and apply pressure from one end has given India a huge advantage.
In the fourth Test, even though the pitch at Old Trafford offered little help, Bumrah toiled hard, bowled long spells, and picked up two crucial wickets. However, the 33 overs he bowled could also become a reason for him to be rested in the final game.
Bowling Coach Sitanshu Kotak Speaks Up
India’s bowling coach Sitanshu Kotak added to the speculation by stating:
“As of now, Bumrah is fit and available. We are constantly monitoring his workload. The decision will be made closer to the match.”
This leaves the door open for both possibilities — Bumrah playing the fifth Test or being rested as a precaution.
England’s Response: Prepared Either Way
The uncertainty around Bumrah’s availability hasn’t gone unnoticed in the England camp. Captain Ben Stokes acknowledged Bumrah’s brilliance but also stated that England is prepared for all scenarios.
“Bumrah is a top-class bowler, but we can’t focus too much on who is playing. We have to play good cricket no matter who is in their XI,” said Stokes during his media interaction.
The Bigger Picture: India Eyeing Series Glory
This Test series has been one of the most competitive in recent memory. With both teams winning two matches each, the fifth Test becomes a virtual final. For India, winning this match would mean a historic Test series win in England. Bumrah’s availability could significantly boost their chances, especially against a strong English batting lineup.
However, the Indian team is also thinking long-term. With important series and tournaments lined up later this year, including the World Test Championship Final, risking Bumrah unnecessarily may not be a wise move.
Final Word: Bumrah’s Inclusion Still Uncertain
As things stand, there is no confirmed answer to whether Jasprit Bumrah will play the fifth Test at The Oval. The Indian team management is expected to take the final call after observing Bumrah in the training sessions leading up to the match.
For fans, the wait continues. Whether he takes the field or not, Bumrah’s presence continues to dominate the headlines and underlines his immense value to Indian cricket.
