IND v ENG: Jasprit Bumrah released from squad for fourth Test; KL Rahul out of Ranchi too

Mumbai, Feb 20 (IANS) Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been released from the Indian squad for the fourth Test against England in Ranchi, Jharkhand, giving the Gujarat pacer some rest after three successive matches. The decision to rest Bumrah was taken keeping in mind the duration of the series and the amount of cricket he has played in recent times, the BCCI informed in a statement on Tuesday.

Bumrah’s absence from the squad for the fourth Test comes as a strategic move to manage his workload and ensure that he remains fit and available for future matches. The decision reflects the team management’s focus on prioritizing the well-being of the players and preventing fatigue or injury.

In place of Bumrah, Mukesh Kumar, who was released from the squad for the third Test in Rajkot, has joined the squad in Ranchi. With India leading 2-1 in the five-match series, the team aims to maintain their momentum and secure a victory in the upcoming Test match.

There was speculation at the end of the third Test in Rajkot that Bumrah could be rested for the fourth Test in Ranchi to manage his workload. Bumrah’s consistent presence in the Indian squad in recent series, including the tour of South Africa, has led to concerns about his workload and the need for rest periods.

In addition to Bumrah’s absence, wicketkeeper-batter K.L Rahul is ruled out of the fourth Test. His participation in the final Test match in Dharamsala is subject to fitness, indicating potential changes in the composition of the team for the last match of the series.

India’s updated squad for the 4th Test includes Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, and Akash Deep, illustrating the depth and versatility of the team’s resources.

The decision to release Bumrah from the Indian squad for the fourth Test highlights the team’s strategic planning and commitment to the well-being of the players. As the series against England progresses, the team’s focus on managing the workload of key players and maximizing performance remains a key priority.