Akash Deep to Replace Bumrah in Final Test
With Bumrah's fitness a concern, Akash Deep's inclusion could provide a much-needed boost to India's pace attack, as they look to win the series against a strong English side. The team's strategy and player selection will be key in the final Test, with the series hanging in the balance.
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India is likely to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the final Test against England, with Akash Deep expected to replace him in the playing XI, as the team looks to manage Bumrah's workload and preserve his long-term fitness.
Bumrah has already played three Tests on the tour, and the team had planned for him to play only three. He bowled 33 overs in the fourth Test and conceded over 100 runs, a first in his career, and hasn't bowled since. The team's pace department is facing challenges, with Mohammed Siraj having played all four Tests and bowled 139 overs, raising concerns about his workload.
The final Test is scheduled to start on Thursday at The Oval, and the team is expected to name its playing XI soon. India's playing XI for the fifth Test against England is yet to be finalized, with Shubman Gill remaining tight-lipped on the availability of Jasprit Bumrah. England has already named their XI, with a pace-heavy attack and no frontline spinner.
The series is tied 2-2, with the final Test expected to be a closely contested match. India's Gill believes Stokes' absence will be a significant loss for England, while England's Ben Stokes is ruled out due to injury. The team's decision to rest Bumrah and potentially Siraj will be crucial in determining the outcome of the series.