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"Team always comes first": Agarkar gives firm verdict on Bumrah's workload row

Soumyajit Dutta

Ajit Agarkar and Jasprit Bumrah [Source: @VibhuBhola/X.com]Ajit Agarkar and Jasprit Bumrah [Source: @VibhuBhola/X.com]

India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been declared fully fit and available for the entire two-match Test series against the West Indies, starting October 2 in Ahmedabad. This announcement from chief selector Ajit Agarkar comes as a significant boost for the team as they begin their new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle at home.

The confirmation dispels any concerns about workload management following the Asia Cup, especially with the tight turnaround from the final on September 28. 

Agarkar Confirms Bumrah's Readiness

Addressing the media, Ajit Agarkar left no room for doubt regarding the premier fast bowler's condition and commitment. He highlighted the sufficient break Bumrah has had, which has prepared him for the red-ball challenge.

“He's available for both the Test matches. We've had a fair break after England. In fact, he didn't play the fifth Test either. So there's been a bit of a month or five weeks of break and even this tournament has been fairly spaced out till this last week. So, no, he's ready and keen to play both Test matches,” Agarkar said as per ANI.

Team comes first in workload management

While Jasprit Bumrah is fit, Agarkar acknowledged the constant need to balance the player's long-term fitness with the team's demanding schedule. He outlined the collaborative process involved in managing a key asset like Bumrah, especially with major tournaments on the horizon.

“Normally, we discuss this with the physios and the coaches, and obviously, we want the best for him, but the team will always come first. That is always the case. He's a terrific performer. So we want him available as much as possible, but we have to be careful with him with some of the big tournaments coming as well, but like I said, the team always comes first,” Agarkar noted.

With Bumrah leading the attack, India will be confident of a positive start against the West Indies. The squad, to be led by Shubman Gill, blends experienced names with young talent, aiming to secure maximum points in their first home assignment of the WTC cycle.