Will Jassi Bhai Play? Siraj Confirms Bumrah's Role in Fourth Test

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jasprit Bumrah confirmed to play in the fourth Test.
- India faces injury challenges with Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh out.
- Nitish Kumar Reddy ruled out for the series.
- Team strategy focuses on bowling in good areas.
- Potential return of Shardul Thakur.
Manchester, July 21 (NationPress) Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has officially announced that Jasprit Bumrah, the team's leading pace bowler, will participate in the upcoming fourth Test in Manchester starting this Wednesday. This revelation has put an end to the ongoing rumors regarding his availability for this crucial match.
This news is a huge relief for Indian fans, especially after the unfortunate injuries to fellow pacers Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh, which led to the inclusion of Anshul Kamboj as a substitute.
As India finds itself trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, all eyes are on Bumrah, who has been cautiously managed and is set to play in only three Tests. After participating in the first and third Tests—both losses for India—Bumrah is now anticipated to make a significant impact in this pivotal game.
“Jassi bhai will play as far as I know,” Siraj stated during a press briefing on Monday.
Regarding his teammate, Siraj added, “Akash Deep is dealing with a groin problem; he bowled today, and our physiotherapists will assess him. Our combination is shifting, but we must focus on bowling in the right areas. Our strategy is straightforward: maintain our focus on good areas.”
In further updates, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been sidelined for the remainder of the series due to a left knee injury, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday.
Having missed the first Test but participated in the second and third, Nitish will be heading home after a lackluster performance in Birmingham, despite his valuable contributions at Lord's with both bat and ball. His absence may pave the way for Shardul Thakur to rejoin the squad.
Additionally, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh will not be available for the fourth Test due to an impact injury to his left thumb sustained during practice in Beckenham. The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his condition.