The second Test match between India and England is set to begin on 2nd July at Edgbaston, and Team India has a big decision to make who will fill in for Jasprit Bumrah, who is set to be rested? This was part of the pre-decided plan to manage the ace pacer’s workload, as he was only scheduled to play three Tests on this tour.
Now that the first Test has already been played and India is trailing 0-1 in the series, the absence of Bumrah, who has been the spearhead of the Indian pace attack for years, leaves a massive gap. Naturally, the biggest question facing Team India is: Who replaces Jasprit Bumrah in the playing XI?
Workload Management Why Bumrah Is Being Rested
At the time of India’s squad announcement for the England tour back in May, Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar had clearly stated that Jasprit Bumrah would only play three Tests to avoid any injury or fatigue. Bumrah himself had confirmed that decision after landing in England. The strategy was always to rest him at a suitable point in the series and it now looks like the Edgbaston Test will be that moment.
Jasprit Bumrah total wickets across formats have made him India’s most reliable fast bowler in recent years. But to preserve his fitness, especially with a packed calendar ahead, the management seems firm on resting him despite India being behind in the series.
Who Are the Options? Arshdeep or Akash Deep?
With Bumrah out, India has two main contenders to fill his shoes: Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep. Both pacers offer different strengths, but team requirements and current form suggest that Akash Deep might be the more favorable choice.
While Arshdeep brings in left-arm variety and has impressed in limited-overs formats, Akash Deep has a stronger case when it comes to red-ball cricket, especially in foreign conditions.
Akash Deep’s Edge Over Arshdeep Singh
What makes Akash Deep stand out is his growing experience in first-class cricket. He has already played 38 first-class matches, claiming 128 wickets, including some standout performances in the domestic circuit. More importantly, he made his Test debut against England during their previous tour to India and performed notably well before an injury disrupted his momentum during the Australia tour.
Unlike Arshdeep, Akash has shown the ability to bowl with discipline in longer formats. His key strength lies in his ability to extract movement after pitching a skill crucial in English conditions. His deliveries tend to skid after hitting the pitch, troubling batters with less reaction time.
As the team faces a strong English batting lineup without their best bowler, the selectors and coach Gautam Gambhir, alongside captain Shubman Gill, might look to Akash to bring control and aggression.
Why Bumrah’s Absence Matters So Much
The importance of Jasprit Bumrah total wickets becomes crystal clear in moments like these. He’s not just any bowler he’s a match-winner. With over 150 Test wickets, and hundreds more across white-ball formats, Jasprit Bumrah total wickets serve as a testament to his consistency and fear factor.
In overseas conditions, especially in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia), Jasprit Bumrah total wickets have often come in crucial spells that have turned the match in India’s favor.
His unique action, reverse swing mastery, and accuracy make him nearly irreplaceable. But India must now find a short-term solution to keep the bowling unit competitive. And in this context, Jasprit Bumrah total wickets are not just statistics they’re a reminder of the huge boots someone like Akash Deep must now try to fill.
Conclusion Time for New Firepower?
While fans may be disappointed that Jasprit Bumrah total wickets won’t increase in this particular Test, it opens the door for someone like Akash Deep to make his mark. If India is to bounce back in the series, they’ll need a bowler who can provide both control and breakthroughs and Akash has the temperament and skillset to do just that.
The selectors’ decision to rest Bumrah is a long-term move. It’s now up to the younger pacers to step up and ensure India remains competitive. And who knows the next big name in Indian pace bowling might just begin his rise at Edgbaston.