As India prepares for the second Test against England in Birmingham, Jasprit Bumrah’s availability remains uncertain. While India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Bumrah is fit, he also pointed out that the pacer is likely to play only three matches in the five-Test series.
With just eight days to recover since the first Test, Bumrah’s workload is under scrutiny, and the team is still evaluating whether to include him for the Edgbaston encounter.
His participation is expected to be a last-minute decision, based on the team’s needs and pitch conditions. Although Bumrah has trained, the team is exploring the best way to manage his involvement across the series, indicating they might opt to rest him for this match if necessary.
India is also weighing its spin options for the second Test. The cooler English conditions could support the use of two spinners. Kuldeep Yadav is a strong contender, but the team is trying to strike a balance between three seamers and the batting strength at positions six to eight.
Batting all-rounder Nitish Reddy is in contention for selection, potentially adding depth and flexibility to the lineup. All three spinners—Kuldeep, Washington Sundar, and another contender—have been performing well with the bat in the nets, enhancing their value in team composition.
On the English side, fast bowler Chris Woakes is looking to continue the momentum from their historic chase in the first Test. With the match set to be played on his home ground, Woakes is anticipating strong support from fans.
Now the most experienced pacer in the absence of James Anderson and Stuart Broad, Woakes is taking on a mentoring role while also focusing on his own performance.
England also received a boost with the return of Jofra Archer to the squad, although he may not feature in the second Test.
Woakes appreciated Archer’s determination and praised his recovery from injury, suggesting that Archer’s best performances are still ahead. He also credited Ben Stokes for his impressive bowling display in the first Test, noting the captain’s fitness and leadership with the ball.
Regarding India’s Rishabh Pant, Woakes recognized the challenge he poses with his aggressive style. England is expected to target Pant early when the second Test begins on July 2nd.