Dubai, Sep 25 (NationPress) Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has officially confirmed that India’s leading pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah is set to participate in both Tests against the West Indies, alleviating any worries regarding his workload management. On Thursday, India unveiled their squad for the two-Test series, with Agarkar emphasizing that Bumrah is "ready and enthusiastic" to step onto the field.

"This squad is intended for both Tests, so Bumrah is available for both matches," Agarkar stated during the press briefing. "We had a substantial break, and he didn’t compete in the fifth Test against England. So we had a proper rest. The Asia Cup was also well spaced out until last week. Therefore, Bumrah is prepared and eager to play both games."

Agarkar highlighted that discussions regarding workload are a vital component of the selection process and involve physios, trainers, and the coach. However, he reiterated that the team’s requirements take precedence. "Typically, there are conversations with physios, trainers, and the coach. Naturally, we want the best for him, but the team will always come first. That is a constant. He’s an exceptional performer, and we want him available as much as possible, but we must be cautious with him, especially with significant tournaments ahead. But the team comes before all," Agarkar added.

Bumrah played a crucial role in India's Test series against England earlier this year, even though he participated in only three of the five matches due to workload management. He concluded the series as the joint-fourth highest wicket-taker, claiming 14 wickets at an average of 26.00. His impressive performances included figures of 5-74 at Lord’s and 5-83 at Headingley, although India lost the first Test despite his contributions. At Old Trafford, Bumrah faced a rare challenge, conceding over 100 runs in a single innings for the first time in his career.

The series kicks off on October 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, followed by the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on October 10.

India’s squad for the West Indies Tests:

Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, N Jagadeesan (WK), Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav.