Will Jasprit Bumrah Miss the Decisive Test Against England? Akash Deep Set to Step In!

In a significant development for Indian cricket, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the decisive fifth Test against England due to workload management. Reports indicate that Akash Deep is poised to replace him in the lineup. Bumrah's recent performance has raised concerns, particularly after a lackluster showing in the fourth Test. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has yet to finalize the team composition, but the focus remains on ensuring Bumrah's long-term fitness. As India fights to stay alive in the series, the absence of their star bowler could have major implications. Discover more about this unfolding situation and its impact on the team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2025, 12:16 IST

Bumrah's Absence in the Fifth Test

London: Jasprit Bumrah, India's leading fast bowler, is expected to sit out the crucial fifth Test against England, commencing Thursday at The Oval, due to workload management. Reports suggest that Akash Deep is likely to take his place.

The 31-year-old, currently ranked as the world's top pacer, struggled during the drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford, where he was unable to maintain his usual pace and failed to secure wickets.

According to reports from ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI medical team advised Bumrah that this decision is aimed at protecting his back and considering his long-term health.

Akash Deep, who missed the previous Test due to a minor groin injury, is anticipated to step in for Bumrah in the playing XI.

Previously, head coach Gautam Gambhir mentioned that no final decisions had been made regarding the team lineup, asserting that all bowlers, including Bumrah, were fit.

Gambhir stated, "We haven’t discussed the combination for the last Test yet. No decision has been made about Jasprit Bumrah's participation. Ultimately, whoever plays will strive to perform for the country."

In the fourth Test, England amassed a staggering 669 runs in response to India's 358, establishing a 311-run lead in the first innings.

Nevertheless, India mounted an impressive comeback from a precarious position of 0 for 2, batting for 143 overs in their second innings, with centuries from captain Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja, resulting in a dramatic draw that keeps them in the five-match series, now trailing 1-2.

Bumrah bowled a total of 33 overs in the first innings of the fourth Test, marking the highest number of overs he has bowled in a single innings, yet he recorded figures of 2 for 103, marking the first instance he conceded over 100 runs in a Test innings.

His ability to bowl deliveries exceeding 140kph significantly declined throughout the series, dropping from 42.7% at Headingley to just 0.5% at Old Trafford.

Despite his recent struggles, Bumrah remains tied as India's leading wicket-taker in the series, alongside Mohammed Siraj, with a total of 14 wickets.