Birmingham: Ravi Shastri, former India all-rounder and head coach, criticized the Indian team management for deciding to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test against England. The match is crucial since India trails 0-1 in the series.
Before the series began, it was clear that Bumrah would only play three of the five Tests. India’s captain Shubman Gill opted to sit him out, which raised eyebrows given India’s recent struggles. Shastri highlighted India’s poor run, having lost three Tests against New Zealand at home, three in Australia, and the first Test to England. He pointed out that the team is on a losing streak, having secured just one win in their last nine matches. “You have the best fast bowler in the world, yet you make him sit out after just seven days of rest. It’s hard to believe,” he stated.
India also made three changes to their lineup: Washington Sundar replaced Sai Sudharsan, Nitish Kumar Reddy stepped in for Shardul Thakur, and Aakash Deep took Bumrah’s place.
Ex-Australian cricketer Tom Moody found the selection baffling, especially with only five specialist batsmen in the team. “The focus on all-rounders hasn’t worked well. Specialists are key in Tests,” he tweeted.
Similarly, Aaron Finch argued that if Bumrah was fit, he should be playing. He urged that Kuldeep should also be in the squad, suggesting he could be an impactful option. Former Indian player Dodda Ganesh expressed his disbelief on social media, questioning how India expects to take 20 wickets with their current bowling lineup.
The choices made by India have stirred discussions among fans and analysts alike. As the game unfolds, the decisions of the team’s management will be under scrutiny.
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RAVI SHASTRI, FAST BOWLER, INDIA VERSUS ENGLAND, BIRMINGHAM TEST, JASPRIT BUMRAH, RAVI SHASTRI SLAMS INDIAN TEAM MANAGEMENT FOR RESTING JASPRIT BUMRAH