India Likely to Play Jasprit Bumrah at Manchester – Series on the Line

With the five-Test series against England on the line at 2–1, India is strongly **leaning towards including** Jasprit Bumrah for the crucial fourth Test at Manchester. Despite a carefully managed workload following back surgery, his presence could turn the tide in India’s favour. According to Reuters, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said, “It’s pretty obvious that the series is on the line now in Manchester, so there will be a leaning towards playing him.”

Table of Contents

• Bumrah’s Fitness & Workload
• Coach’s Take
• Series Context & Pressure
• Quick Summary

Bumrah’s Fitness & Workload

Despite missing the second Test to manage his recovering back, Jasprit Bumrah has taken two five-wicket hauls in Tests he played this tour (Leeds & Lord’s). However, the team is limiting him to just **three of five Tests** to preserve his fitness. His inclusion in Manchester is seen as pivotal.

Coach’s Perspective

Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed the strategic consideration: “We know we’ve got him for one of the last two Tests… it’s pretty obvious the series is on the line now in Manchester.” He emphasized that final selection depends on pitch forecasts, expected playing days, and overall series strategy. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Series Context & Pressure

India trails 2–1 heading into Old Trafford. A win would level the series, while a loss would hand England a decisive 3–1 advantage. Inclusion of Bowler Bumrah, still recovering but in peak form, is being viewed as a **must-win gamble**. Former spinner Monty Panesar has publicly backed this move, calling Bumrah “India’s best weapon” for Manchester. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Aspect	Detail
Series Score	England lead 2–1
Bumrah Matches	Played Leeds, skipped Birmingham, played Lord’s
Workload Plan	Limited to 3 Tests to manage fitness
Key Decision	Manchester Test deemed critical for series hope

Other team fitness notes: Rishabh Pant is recovering from a finger injury but is expected to resume both batting and keeping in Manchester. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Disclaimer: This article is based on information from reputable news outlets and should be independently verified.

Thank you for visiting Cricket In Focus! Discover more under India, Test, and England.