ENG vs IND: Rahane Picks Bumrah’s Likely Replacement for Crucial 4th Test

Rahane Backs Arshdeep as Bumrah’s Replacement for Crucial 4th Test vs England

India’s veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane has suggested that left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh should replace Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth Test against England, if the speedster is rested. Bumrah’s availability remains uncertain as the team management weighs its options with the series delicately poised at 1–2.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir had earlier indicated that Bumrah would feature in only three Tests of the five-match series. With two matches already under his belt, the fourth Test could see him sitting out — especially with the short turnaround before the fifth game.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rahane said,

“If Bumrah is not playing, Arshdeep is the guy. In England, you need a left-arm seamer who can swing the ball both ways. The angle he provides can also create rough patches for spinners.”

Arshdeep, who has yet to make his Test debut, has impressed in domestic cricket with 66 wickets in 21 first-class games. However, his participation in the fourth Test is also under cloud after he sustained a cut on his hand during a practice session in Beckenham.

India’s assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate provided an update, saying:

“He tried to stop the ball while bowling and ended up with a cut. We’re waiting to see if he needs stitches. That will determine our plans in the coming days.” With the series on the line, India must win the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, starting July 23, to keep the contest alive. The team management will have to make critical selection decisions to field their strongest XI after an eight-day break.