Bumrah Poised for Manchester Test as India Seeks Series Turnaround

Jasprit Bumrah is expected to play in the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, according to his bowling partner Mohammed Siraj.

Mohammed Siraj confirms Bumrah's participation in the Old Trafford Test. © Getty

Bumrah's participation has been a topic of speculation, given a pre-series agreement to manage his workload by limiting him to three of the five Tests. With India trailing 1-2, his inclusion in the Manchester Test is vital.

The nine-day break since the Lord's Test on July 14 has further solidified his chances of playing.

On Monday, Bumrah engaged in discussions with chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir, followed by a shorter bowling session in the nets before practicing his batting.

The weather forecast predicts rain on three of the five days at Old Trafford, which might reduce his bowling workload, potentially allowing him to play in the final Test at The Oval, starting on July 31.

India's bowling attack from Lord's is likely to see at least one change, with Akash Deep nursing a groin injury. While he bowled with a shortened run-up during practice, his participation remains uncertain. A decision will be made within 24 hours.

To bolster the pace attack, Anshul Kamboj has been added to the squad. The Haryana bowler impressed for India 'A' against the England Lions. Kamboj arrived in Manchester on Sunday and immediately began practicing with the new ball, under the supervision of Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel.

Prasidh Krishna is also in contention for a spot, having played the first two Tests. Despite his expensive spell in Birmingham, he showed improvement in the Old Trafford nets, troubling top-order batsmen with his rhythm.

In positive news, Rishabh Pant seems to have recovered from the injury that limited his keeping duties in the Lord's Test. He kept wickets during a slip-catching drill and batted without discomfort.

However, if doubts persist about Pant's ability to keep for five days, Dhruv Jurel may replace the injured Nitish Reddy. If Pant is cleared, Sai Sudharsan could be included, eager to build on his debut at Headingley.