NEW DELHI: As India trails 1-2 in the five-match Test series against England, the spotlight is now on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah and whether he will feature in the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford. While the BCCI had earlier indicated that Bumrah might play only three Tests in the series, growing speculation suggests a rethink could be underway, given the high stakes.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta has strongly advocated for Bumrah’s inclusion in the fourth Test. Speaking on Star Sports, Dasgupta emphasized that with the series on the line, India can’t afford to bench their premier fast bowler.
“Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth Test? Absolutely yes,” said Dasgupta. “I’ve heard rumors that the original plan was for him to play the first, third, and fifth Tests. But now, with India 1-2 behind, the fourth Test becomes extremely crucial. You definitely want the world’s best bowler in action.”
He also pointed out that Bumrah has ample time to recover, thanks to the eight-day gap between the third and fourth Tests. “It remains to be seen whether the fifth Test holds significance if India lose the fourth. But right now, the fourth Test is absolutely vital,” he added.
Meanwhile, former England all-rounder Moeen Ali has drawn parallels between Shubman Gill’s aggressive demeanor and Virat Kohli’s famously combative style. Moeen noted that Gill’s on-field behavior, especially during the Edgbaston Test, mirrored Kohli’s iconic century celebration at the same venue in 2018.
“My take is, it’s fine,” Moeen said during a Global Super League (GSL) media interaction. “He’s just trying to be competitive, showing fight — very similar to Virat.”
However, Moeen suggested that Gill’s fiery attitude may have unintentionally fueled England’s resurgence in the series. “I think he’s brought out the best of England — that beast mode they can go into. And it’s a different side of England when they’re provoked.”
He concluded by dismissing criticism of Gill’s behavior, saying, “It’s great for the series. I don’t know why it’s getting criticised.”
With England just one win away from sealing the series, India faces a do-or-die scenario. The availability of Bumrah — arguably the most lethal weapon in India’s bowling arsenal — could make or break their chances of leveling the series ahead of a potentially decisive fifth Test.
As fans and experts wait for the official squad announcement, the BCCI’s next move regarding Bumrah will be watched closely — and could shape the outcome of this gripping series.
