New Delhi: India’s hopes in the ongoing Manchester Test took a serious hit as star pacer Jasprit Bumrah was seen limping while climbing the stairs to the dressing room at Old Trafford on Day 3, sparking fresh concerns over his fitness amid a growing injury list for the visitors.
Bumrah, who had been instrumental in India’s bowling attack throughout the series, was notably absent for a large part of the first two sessions after reportedly twisting his ankle on the stadium stairs. His early exit from the field raised eyebrows, especially as he failed to return for a second spell after bowling just one over with the second new ball.
With England’s Joe Root and captain Ben Stokes steadily building a partnership and neutralizing the new ball threat, Bumrah’s absence was keenly felt. Cameras later showed the pacer seated beyond the boundary, visibly in discomfort. When he briefly returned to the field, his limited mobility and pained expression made it clear that he wasn’t at full fitness.
Commentating on the situation, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting remarked, “It’s a good sign that Bumrah is back on the field, but it’s a bad sign that he went off. He’s grimacing and looks uncomfortable. He’s reaching down at his left ankle.”
Ponting added that Bumrah would likely need more time before returning to bowl, estimating, “He has been off for a few overs now. I think he will probably have to serve another 10-12 minutes before he can bowl.”
Bumrah had been earmarked to feature in three matches of the series, while Mohammed Siraj has played in all four so far. The toll on the fast bowlers is becoming evident, with declining average speeds in the current Test.
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel acknowledged the challenge, stating, “Much better today with the ball. I thought yesterday was a tough day for us in the office. We missed our lines, putting us slightly on the back foot. But the way the boys responded this morning, especially Siraj and Bumrah, was good to see.”
He also emphasized the need to build depth, adding, “We’ve got Siraj, we’ve got Bumrah, and Akash has played a little bit, but he’s out injured. So we continue to find ways to bring in new talent.”
With India trailing in the fourth Test and staring at a possible series defeat, Bumrah’s fitness will be a key concern going forward.
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