India has lost the Test series to New Zealand, with the visitors securing victories in the Bengaluru and Pune Test matches to clinch the series. The final match is scheduled to take place at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium starting November 1. This last game presents India’s only chance to salvage some pride in the series. India is expected to field its strongest lineup for the Test, yet there are calls to rest one of the star players—pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, with former wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik leading the appeal.
Winning the Final Test is Crucial
India suffered a defeat in the Pune Test within just three days, marking their first home series loss in 12 years. This setback has not only affected India’s dominance but has also complicated their path to the World Test Championship final. To avoid a series whitewash and keep their final aspirations alive, India must secure a victory in Mumbai. Bumrah would play a key role in such an attempt, given the assistance for fast bowlers at the Wankhede Stadium and his significant experience on this ground.
Despite This, Calls to Rest Bumrah Persist
Former Indian player Karthik believes Bumrah should be rested for this Test. In a show on Cricbuzz, Karthik explained that Bumrah is in need of rest, which is likely to happen. He expects Mohammed Siraj to replace Bumrah in the playing XI and doesn’t anticipate other changes to the squad unless an injury arises.
Why is Resting Bumrah Important?
Why has Karthik suggested resting Bumrah? Does India truly need to take this step? While it’s true that India needs to win the final match, and Bumrah could be instrumental given the pace-friendly conditions at Wankhede, resting him is crucial. After the Mumbai Test, India is set to tour Australia for a five-Test series, where Bumrah will bear much of the bowling responsibility, especially with Mohammed Shami unavailable for the tour. Playing all five matches in Australia could strain Bumrah, making it necessary to give him a break now.
Additionally, there’s an interesting pattern: India has lost all five Tests that Bumrah has played against New Zealand so far. Giving him a rest in this game might just bring a change in fortune for Team India.