What Matches Will Bumrah Participate In? Nair Set for an Opportunity: Gambhir

Mumbai, June 5 (NationPress) As India prepares for a challenging tour of England featuring five Test matches with several senior players absent, skipper Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir face difficult decisions regarding their batting and bowling lineup.

The first significant decision involves selecting an opener to fill Rohit Sharma's shoes—either Yashasvi Jaiswal or Abhimanyu Easwaran. Additionally, the question of Karun Nair's potential return to the Indian middle order looms large, along with the even more pressing matter of which matches Jasprit Bumrah will feature in out of the scheduled five. Bumrah's participation is limited to four Tests to manage his workload.

Gambhir stated that the decision regarding which four matches Bumrah will play has not yet been made. However, he emphasized that Nair has a significant chance of making it into the playing XI, given his recent strong performances in both domestic cricket and for India A.

"We haven't finalized that decision yet. A lot will depend on how the series unfolds, and we will discuss this with him. I am sure he is aware of this situation as well," Gambhir mentioned during the pre-departure press conference at the BCCI headquarters on Thursday.

When asked about the absence of Bumrah for the entire tour, Gambhir expressed confidence in the team's bowling lineup.

"I believe we have selected a diverse group of bowlers, and the pace attack is in excellent form, capable of winning matches from any scenario. While having someone like Jasprit Bumrah on the field is always a sight to behold, it’s challenging to replace him. Yet, this could be an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their skills," Gambhir added.

He further highlighted the importance of the current crop of bowlers, stating, "We have a well-rounded group of bowlers. Replacing someone of Bumrah's caliber is never easy, but we have sufficient alternatives available to us."

Discussing Nair's potential return after his outstanding domestic season, where he rebounded after being dropped post his triple-century for India, Gambhir remarked that players in form will be given opportunities, emphasizing his commitment to providing players with enough chances to prove themselves.

"This is great for domestic cricket as it encourages young talents. Players like Nair, who have performed well, will always be considered. He has also played some county cricket and is in fantastic form, having scored a double hundred for India A in the first unofficial Test against the England Lions. His experience will be invaluable, and we will ensure he is supported and not judged solely on a couple of Tests," Gambhir stated.

When queried about Shreyas Iyer's potential inclusion as a replacement during the tour, despite having previously stated that squad selection is the selectors' responsibility, Gambhir said, "Anyone in good form can be considered. We can only choose 18 players, and the chairman of selectors has already addressed that. My focus is on being open to players performing well and ready to contribute."