Following Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar performance in the second Test against South Africa in Visakhapatnam, where he claimed nine wickets for 91 runs, the national selectors are contemplating granting him a break for the upcoming Rajkot Test. Recognizing the need to preserve Bumrah’s energy for the final two Tests, selectors are deliberating on providing him with some well-deserved rest.
Having bowled tirelessly over 32 overs in the high-stakes encounter, Bumrah’s exceptional display may have depleted his energy reserves. Mohammed Siraj, who received a similar break for the second Test, is expected to be reinstated by the selectors to lead the attack in the third game.
Managing the workload of fast bowlers like Bumrah and Siraj has become crucial, especially with Mohammed Shami still recovering from an ankle injury. Ravindra Jadeja’s return to full fitness remains uncertain, while Virat Kohli’s absence, attributed to a family emergency, has left his availability for the series uncertain.
Coach Rahul Dravid indicated that efforts are underway to ascertain Kohli’s availability, with AB de Villiers shedding light on Kohli’s family situation. Meanwhile, KL Rahul is anticipated to return for the remainder of the series, with the third Test in Rajkot scheduled to commence on February 15.
