Shubman Gill stated that Jasprit Bumrah’s involvement in the upcoming West Indies Tests will be determined on a match-by-match basis.
Bumrah’s Participation in West Indies Tests to Be Decided Match by Match
Skipper Shubman Gill has clarified that the team management has not pre-decided whether Jasprit Bumrah will feature in both Tests against West Indies. This marks a shift in approach since the England tour, where Bumrah was slated to play only three Tests and faced criticism for missing the fifth Test due to workload management.
Shubman Gill emphasized that Bumrah’s involvement will be assessed on a match-by-match basis, taking into account the fast bowlers’ workload and fitness after each game. “We’re going to take a call on a match-to-match basis depending on how long a Test match goes on and how many overs our fast bowlers bowl. Nothing is pre-decided. We’re going to take the call once the Test match is over, and how our fast bowlers feel and how their bodies feel after the match,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav were seen in an extended practice session on a pitch next to the main green-top track, preparing for the first Test at Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday.
India not decided team combination for first Test vs WI
Shubman Gill indicated that India could consider playing a third seamer in the series opener against West Indies, with the Ahmedabad pitch expected to be a green-top amid hot and humid conditions. In recent home Tests, India has typically played with two pacers, but Shubman Gill suggested the combination might change for the first Test.
“Having said that, any challenge for any team that comes to India, they know the challenge is going to be spin and reverse swing. Keeping these challenges in mind, we would be looking to play on wickets that offer both to the batsmen and the bowlers. You will get to know the combination tomorrow. Given how the weather and conditions are, we are tempted to have a third seaming option, but we will take a call tomorrow,” he added.