“Jasprit Bumrah Must Play Manchester Test, Says Former India Cricketer”

Deep Dasgupta Backs Bumrah to Play Crucial Manchester Test.

Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta believes Jasprit Bumrah must be included in the playing XI for the fourth Test against England in Manchester. Despite featuring in only two of the first three Tests, Bumrah has been India’s standout bowler, claiming two five-wicket hauls and 12 wickets overall at an impressive average of 21.

Before the series began, concerns loomed over the star pacer’s workload. Bumrah had missed the Champions Trophy due to a back injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Former opener Gautam Gambhir had predicted that Bumrah would be rested for two matches, playing only the first, third, and fifth Tests—a claim he reiterated after India’s loss at Headingley.

With India trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, Dasgupta stressed the importance of fielding Bumrah in Manchester. Speaking to Star Sports, the former wicketkeeper said, “Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth Test? Absolutely yes. I heard the plan was to play him in the first, third, and fifth Tests. But now, with India behind, the fourth Test becomes very, very crucial. You want the world’s best bowler on the field.”

Dasgupta pointed to the eight-day gap between the third and fourth Tests—ending on July 14 and resuming on July 23—as sufficient recovery time. “There is an eight-day gap. It remains to be seen how relevant the fifth Test will be, but right now, the fourth Test is extremely important,” he added.

Several former players, including Anil Kumble, have echoed similar sentiments—urging Bumrah to play the final two matches and take rest only after the series concludes.