Team India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested for the second Test against England, which starts on July 2 at Edgbaston, according to a report. The decision is part of a workload management plan drawn up in advance by the team management.

Bumrah Delivered in Leeds Despite Lack of Support

Bumrah recently made his return to Test cricket after recovering from a long-standing back injury. In the first Test at Headingley, he bowled 24.4 overs in the first innings and claimed a five-wicket haul—his 14th in Tests.

His performance stood out, even though India lost the match by five wickets. The defeat came largely due to poor fielding and an inconsistent bowling attack. Bumrah’s fellow pacers—Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur—struggled to match his control and effectiveness.

In the first innings, three catches were dropped off Bumrah's bowling. One of those fielding lapses helped Harry Brook survive three times, and he went on to score 99 runs.

Gambhir: Bumrah Won’t Play All Five Tests

Despite the loss, the team wants to manage Bumrah’s workload carefully. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had already said before the series that Bumrah would not play all five matches.

“If we leave out Bumrah and Siraj, there is not much experience in the line-up but we need to back them as they have got talent,” Gambhir said after the loss in Leeds.

He added, “This pace attack comprises of one bowler who has played four Tests, another who has played two, and one who hasn’t played a Test.”

Resting Bumrah Could Hurt India’s Bowling

India are trailing 0-1 in the five-match series, and Bumrah’s absence could further weaken an already struggling bowling unit. The second and third Tests are scheduled just four days apart, with the third taking place at Lord’s. So, the team is considering resting Bumrah now to keep him fresh for the tougher challenges ahead.

If Bumrah sits out, Mohammed Siraj will likely lead the bowling attack. India may also recall Arshdeep Singh or add spinner Kuldeep Yadav to strengthen the side.

Gill Faces Pressure as Captain

Bumrah’s possible absence also puts more pressure on captain Shubman Gill, whose field placements and bowling rotations were questioned during the Leeds Test. With the team under scrutiny and behind in the series, India must regroup quickly to stay in the contest.