• Home
  • Match Hub
  • Why Is Jasprit Bumrah Not Playing The Eng Vs Ind 2Nd Test At Edgbaston

Why Is Jasprit Bumrah Not Playing The ENG vs IND 2nd Test At Edgbaston?

Jatin

Jasprit Bumrah has been rested [Source: @MrunalKSays/x.com]Jasprit Bumrah has been rested [Source: @MrunalKSays/x.com]

India’s playing XI for the second Test against England at Edgbaston raised a few eyebrows as pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was missing from the lineup. However, the decision is part of a strategic workload management plan, not a last-minute surprise.

Jasprit Bumrah Has Been Rested To Manage Workload

At the toss which England won and decided to field first, Indian captain Shubman Gill clarified the reason behind Bumrah’s absence:

“Bumrah was given rest to manage his workload. The third Test is at Lord's, and we expect more assistance from that pitch, so we want to use him there.”

It’s a thoughtful call. Jasprit Bumrah bowled more than 43 overs in the first Test at Headingley, where he picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings. With a long five-match series ahead, keeping your premier fast bowler fresh for the more challenging conditions makes complete sense.

India Make Key Changes After Losing The Toss

India made three changes for the second Test. Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar and Akash Deep were brought in to replace Sai Sudharsan, Shardul Thakur, and Bumrah.

The decision appears to be aimed at improving balance, particularly strengthening the lower-order batting and adding variety to the bowling attack. India struggled in the first Test, losing by five wickets after England chased down 371 in the fourth innings. The collapse of the lower order was a key concern, and the new inclusions are expected to offer more stability and depth.

Meanwhile, with the third Test to be played at Lord’s, a venue known to offer seam and swing, the team management is clearly targeting that match as a key outing for Bumrah. Preserving him now ensures that India will have a fully fit and refreshed fast bowler ready to take charge when the series resumes in London.

India will hope the rest of the bowling attack can step up and deliver in his absence, as they aim to level the series.