India's Strategy Behind Jasprit Bumrah's Absence in Fifth Test Against England

In a recent discussion, India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate shed light on the decision to rest star bowler Jasprit Bumrah during the fifth Test against England. The team's management prioritized Bumrah's physical health, especially after a previous injury. With Bumrah's significant impact on the game, his absence raised questions about the team's strategy. This article delves into the complexities surrounding Bumrah's workload management and the decisions made by the coaching staff. Discover the insights shared by Doeschate and the implications for India's performance in the series.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 1, 2025, 03:23 IST

Bumrah's Impact on the Fifth Test

London [UK], August 1: Ryan ten Doeschate, the assistant coach for India, discussed the challenging decision regarding the absence of star bowler Jasprit Bumrah during the fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval against England.

Upon revealing the pitch conditions at The Oval, it became evident that Bumrah's participation could have been crucial. However, hopes were dashed when Indian captain Shubman Gill announced at the toss that Bumrah would be replaced by Prasidh Krishna.

Doeschate elaborated on the reasoning behind the decision to rest Bumrah, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing his physical health. He acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “We certainly want to utilize him, but we must also consider his physical condition. Based on that, we felt it was best not to include him in the squad,” he explained to reporters after the first day of play.

Prior to the start of India's five-match series, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had indicated that Bumrah was advised against playing consecutive Tests as part of his workload management strategy. This caution arises from a stress reaction in his back sustained during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney back in January.

Consequently, the 31-year-old fast bowler was planned to participate in three Tests. He played at Headingley, rested at Edgbaston, returned at Lord's, and maintained his position in Manchester. The Indian management remained discreet about the potential for Bumrah to exceed his workload limits.

In his initial two Tests, Bumrah bowled in both innings, but in Manchester, he did not have the chance to bowl a second innings. Over five innings, he has bowled a total of 119.3 overs, the highest for India in the three Tests he has participated in, with Mohammed Siraj following closely at 107.3 overs. Currently, he stands as the leading wicket-taker for India with 14 wickets.

“He has bowled a significant number of overs, which might not be apparent since he has only played three Tests and bowled in one innings in Manchester. However, considering the workload, he has bowled extensively. As he mentioned before the tour, he was available for three matches, and we believed it was the right decision,” he added.

Doeschate also revealed the decision-making process regarding Bumrah's participation, stating, “He indicated he would play three games and left it to us to decide which three. We have been managing the situation carefully.”