Jasprit Bumrah Expected to Miss Mumbai Test Against New Zealand
"I think he [Bumrah] has just done his preparations," Gambhir remarked. He further explained that given the humid conditions typical of Mumbai, Bumrah needed to conserve his energy ahead of the match. "He's prepared really well and he's fine. That's why he's a senior player; he knows how much he needs to prepare for the Test match," he added.
Jasprit Bumrah is anticipated to sit out the third and final Test of the series against New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. While the exact reasons behind this decision remain unclear, Bumrah has been spotted with the team during training but only engaged in light fitness drills and fielding exercises, without bowling at all during the sessions.
Reports suggest that Bumrah is not dealing with any injuries, leading to speculation about whether the team management advised him to rest or if it was a personal choice made by the fast bowler himself. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had earlier stated that all players were available for selection, downplaying concerns regarding Bumrah's limited participation in practice.
"I think he [Bumrah] has just done his preparations," Gambhir remarked. He further explained that given the humid conditions typical of Mumbai, Bumrah needed to conserve his energy ahead of the match. "He's prepared really well and he's fine. That's why he's a senior player; he knows how much he needs to prepare for the Test match," he added.
Bumrah has been a key player for India throughout the home season, participating in all four Tests thus far, where he has bowled 90 overs and taken 14 wickets, ranking third in both categories. His recent appointment as vice-captain indicates his importance to the team, particularly as he is expected to lead during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where Rohit Sharma may miss the first Test for personal reasons.
Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar emphasized Bumrah's manageable workload, stating that the fast bowler has not had excessive overs in the two Tests against New Zealand, averaging around 20-25 overs per match. He acknowledged that while Bumrah’s workload is a consideration, recent matches have not extended into full five-day contests, providing adequate rest for the bowler.
The Mumbai pitch is likely to favor spin bowling, as the red soil tends to offer good bounce while early moisture with the new ball might provide a small advantage for fast bowlers. Despite India's ongoing struggles in the series, having lost the first two Tests and facing their first home series defeat in 12 years, the upcoming match holds significance in terms of World Test Championship points. Currently, India leads the WTC table and is competing for a place in the final at Lord's in June 2025.
