Following India's commanding 336-run victory over England at Edgbaston, which leveled the five-match series 1-1, captain Shubman Gill has confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah will return to the playing XI for the crucial third Test at Lord's. The third Test match is scheduled to commence on July 10, 2025.
Bumrah's absence from the second Test was a strategic decision by the team management to manage his workload, especially after his five-wicket haul in the first Test at Headingley. Despite criticism from some fans and former cricketers who questioned the seemingly defensive move while trailing in the series, India's bowling unit stepped up admirably in Bumrah's absence.
In the second Test, the pace duo of Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj led the charge, taking all 10 wickets in England's first innings. Akash Deep, making his debut, finished with a remarkable 10-wicket match haul, including a stunning 6/99 in the second innings. He became only the second Indian bowler to achieve this feat in a Test match in England, emulating Chetan Sharma's performance in 1986. Siraj also proved crucial, picking up seven wickets across both innings.
Gill, who was named Player of the Match for his impressive scores of 269 and 161, was confident about Bumrah's return. When asked about Bumrah's availability, Gill responded with a firm "Definitely". He further expressed his excitement for the Lord's Test, acknowledging it as the "most iconic cricket stadium in the world" and stating that captaining his country there would be a great honor.
With Bumrah's return, Prasidh Krishna is likely to make way, as he struggled to take wickets and contain runs in the second Test. Bumrah's inclusion will undoubtedly bolster India's pace attack and provide an added edge as they aim to take the lead in the series.
Gill also lauded the team's overall performance and highlighted their plans after the first game. He praised the bowling and fielding efforts, acknowledging that a total of 400-500 runs would be enough on that type of wicket. He also noted that the number of dropped catches in the first match was uncharacteristic. Gill specifically praised Akash Deep for his wholehearted bowling and ability to move the ball both ways, which he said is difficult on such wickets.
India's victory at Edgbaston marked their first-ever Test win at the venue, ending a long wait and leveling the series. The win also significantly improved India's position in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, marking their first victory in the new cycle. As the series shifts to Lord's, India will be eager to carry the momentum and secure another victory with Jasprit Bumrah back in the fold. The match at Lord's, beginning on July 10th, promises to be a thrilling encounter.
