Jasprit Bumrah Fit for Selection Ahead of Final Test Against England

Bumrah's Fitness Update

London (UK), July 29: Sitanshu Kotak, the batting coach for India, confirmed on Tuesday that Jasprit Bumrah, the top-ranked fast bowler globally, is "fit" but there has been no decision made regarding his participation in the upcoming fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, set to commence on July 31 at The Oval.

During a press briefing, Kotak stated, "There has been no discussion about Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion. He is fit now. He bowled one inning in the last match according to his workload. The head coach, our physio, and the captain will have a discussion and make a decision."

Bumrah has been a standout performer for India in the current series, taking 14 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls, with an impressive average of 26.00 and an economy rate of 3.04.

When the Indian squad for the Test series in England was announced, chief selector Ajit Agarkar mentioned that Bumrah was advised against playing in consecutive Tests to manage his workload. This caution arises from a stress reaction in his back sustained during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney back in January.

Throughout the five-match Test series against England, Bumrah participated in the first, third, and fourth Tests; however, India faced defeats in two matches and managed a draw in the third.

In the Manchester Test, Bumrah recorded figures of 2/112 across 33 overs.

As the series stands after four Tests, India is trailing 1-2, with both teams returning to London for the final match of the five-match series.

India struggled against the hosts in the series opener at Headingley and the third Test at Lord's, which contributed to their challenges.

However, India managed to secure a crucial draw at Old Trafford in Manchester, keeping the pressure on England as the intense series approaches its finale.