Former India batter Suresh Raina has hailed Jasprit Bumrah as a “legend” and a vital asset for India’s Test squad, while noting that the decision to play him in the upcoming fourth Test against England at Old Trafford would ultimately depend on medical advice and workload management.
Speaking to ANI during the World Championship of Legends (WCL) in Birmingham, Raina said, “I think it is a doctor’s call, to be very honest. Bumrah knows his body and how to manage it. Look at his performance at Lord’s — he made it to the Honours Board with a five-wicket haul. He is a legend.”
Bumrah, who is being managed carefully following a lengthy injury layoff, has featured in two Tests so far in the ongoing five-match series, claiming 12 wickets at an average of 21.00, including two five-wicket hauls. His availability for the fourth Test is seen as critical, with India trailing 1-2 in the series.
Raina emphasized the importance of both Bumrah and Rishabh Pant in the must-win Test at Manchester. “If India wants to level or win the series, both Bumrah and Pant must feature in the fourth Test,” he stated.
India’s assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate also weighed in, confirming that a decision on Bumrah would be made in Manchester. “We know we’ve got him for one of the last two Tests. With the series on the line, there’s a leaning towards playing him in Manchester,” he told ESPNcricinfo.
However, Ten Doeschate added that all variables — match duration, pitch conditions, and balance for the final Test at The Oval — would be considered before finalising the playing XI.
Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, the second-highest run-scorer in the series with 425 runs at an average of 70.83 and a strike rate over 78, continues to battle a finger injury sustained during the third Test. Despite the pain, he batted courageously, scoring 74 and 9 at Lord’s. Dhruv Jurel stepped in as wicketkeeper, but Pant’s fighting spirit has impressed the coaching staff.
“He batted through the pain, and it’s only getting better,” said Ten Doeschate. “If fit, Rishabh plays and does both roles. Jurel is an option, but Pant is our first choice.”
The fourth Test, beginning July 23 in Manchester, could prove decisive for India’s hopes of turning the series around, with key decisions on Bumrah’s and Pant’s fitness likely to shape the outcome.