Jasprit Bumrah likely to play the third Test (Source: AP)
Team India is likely to bring back their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the third Test against England in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, starting today at Lord’s, London. As per a report by Devendra Pandey (Indian Express), Bumrah is set to replace Prasidh Krishna in the playing XI in what is expected to be India’s only change for the crucial fixture.
The five-match Test series is currently level at 1-1 after India’s record-breaking 336-run win at Edgbaston in the second Test. This win is India's biggest overseas victory in terms of runs, and their first-ever win at the Birmingham venue. With momentum on their side, India will aim to take the lead in the series at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, where they have tasted success consistently in recent years.
Bumrah Back To Bolster Pace Attack
Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the second Test as part of workload management, is expected to return to the XI [as per reports by Devendra Pandey (Indian Express)] . Bumrah’s ability to deliver with the old and new ball makes him a crucial asset, especially on a surface like Lord’s which traditionally supports seam and swing.
His return will likely come at the cost of Prasidh Krishna, who has had a mixed outing in the series so far. While Krishna picked up five wickets in the first Test, he was expensive and managed just one wicket in the second Test. The team management is likely to prefer Bumrah’s control and experience in the third Test.
Batting Line-up To Remain Unchanged
India is expected to stick to the same batting lineup that played the first two Tests- Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul are set to continue as openers. Karun Nair, despite a string of low scores, may retain the No.3 spot, owing to the team’s faith in his potential. Shubman Gill, fresh from a double century, will continue at No.4, followed by Rishabh Pant, who struck centuries in both innings of the first Test, at No.5.
The experienced Ravindra Jadeja will slot in at No.6, with Washington Sundar expected to continue at No.7 after his important 42-run knock in the first innings at Edgbaston. Nitish Reddy, offering batting depth, is likely to retain his place at No.8 despite not making a significant impact yet.
Pace Attack Anchored by Siraj, Akash Deep, And Bumrah
With Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep delivering standout performances at Edgbaston, they are likely to continue as India’s main pace options. With Bumrah back in the squad, India will have a well-rounded pace attack suited to English conditions.