In a notable development, Indian management plans to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the third and final Test against New Zealand. This decision aims to provide the star bowler with adequate recovery time before the crucial tour of Australia. India will host New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on November 1, but with the Kiwis already winning the first two matches, this Test is a dead rubber.
The Rohit Sharma-led side will travel to Australia on November 10 for a five-match Test series that begins on November 22. Jasprit Bumrah, recognized as India’s top bowler, is crucial for the upcoming series, and the management wants him to be in peak condition for the challenges ahead.
According to a report from the Indian Express, Bumrah will not participate in the third Test, paving the way for Mohammed Siraj to potentially replace him. Siraj missed the second Test but could return to the lineup as Bumrah rests.
There have been rumors about Harshit Rana joining the squad for the final Test. He initially served as a travelling reserve for the New Zealand series but was released to play in the Ranji Trophy. Recently, images surfaced online showing Rana training with the team in Mumbai, bowling to Shubman Gill in the nets. However, India’s assistant coach, Abhishek Nayar, previously denied any new additions to the squad.
Additionally, Jasprit Bumrah has slipped from the top of the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings, losing his No. 1 position to South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, who has been in outstanding form against Bangladesh. Bumrah’s performance in this series has been underwhelming, with just three wickets in two matches. Resting him for the third Test could be a strategic move to ensure he regains his form for the challenging series in Australia.
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