While there is uncertainty over Jasprit Bumrah’s return during the two-Test series, Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed could make their first red-ball appearances
The Indian cricket team have a rare break in their schedule at the moment, with their next assignment set to be a two-Test series at home against Bangladesh starting September 19. Most of the regulars in the team will be playing in a rather star-studded Duleep Trophy but among the notable exceptions is ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah.
While it was speculated that Bumrah could make his comeback in the series against Bangladesh, there are doubts about that with the team management and selectors reportedly wanting the fast bowler fully fit for the team’s upcoming tour of Australia.
According to PTI, Bumrah could be eyeing India’s two-match Test series at home against New Zealand as a possible series to make his comeback ahead of the tour Down Under. The Kiwis play three Test matches in India from October 16. India will then leave for Australia to defend their Border-Gavaskar Trophy crown in a five-match Test series.
“In case of Bumrah, he knows his body the best and it will be up to him if he wants to play in the Tests against Bangladesh. The team management and selectors are very clear that India needs a 120 per cent fit Jasprit Bumrah for all five Tests against Australia Down Under. Before that, there is New Zealand in India, where he will probably play and get ready for the sterner tests,” a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
Arshdeep, Khaleel set for Test debut
Meanwhile, fast bowlers Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed, or either of the two, could make their Test debut in the series against Bangladesh. Arshdeep, who played an integral role in India’s T20 World Cup victory earlier this year, had been earmarked for red ball cricket by previous head coach Rahul Dravid as well and he was sent to Kent last year to play some County games.
A five-match series at home against England was Bumrah’s last Test appearance. Since returning from a long-term injury in August last year, the ace fast bowler has been in scorching form in all formats. He last played against South Africa in the T20 World Cup final. Bumrah finished with an economy rate of 4.17 in eight matches, taking 15 wickets and conceding 124 runs. During the tournament, he took 15 wickets and conceded only 124 runs.