Credit: ICC
Eyes will be set on Team India when they will take on England in the second Test to be played in Birmingham. In the opening game, India’s bowling attack looked completely out of rhythm and played an instrumental role in the team’s five-wicket defeat. Except for Jasprit Bumrah, every bowler struggled to trouble England batters. In the first innings of the opening contest, Bumrah spearheaded India’s fast-bowling unit from the front and bagged a fifer. He was the lone warrior for the visitors in the innings as he not only picked up wickets but also was economical. However, following the remarkable performance in the first Test, Bumrah’s participation in the second Test is uncertain due to workload management.
Prior to the big game, Team India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said on June 30 that Bumrah is available for selection in the second game but the decision hasn’t been made on his participation yet. Amidst these developments, Australia Women’s skipper Alyssa Healy showed up on Willow Talk podcast and said India should include Bumrah in the playing XI if the 31-year-old is completely fit. She also emphasised on the hiatus between the two Tests. “Maybe (leave the decision upto him) because this is a big break between Test matches. So do you take the punt and go 'lets have him for this game' knowing it is not a must win but it is probably a good one to win. You got to play him if he is ready and fit," said Healy.
Brad Haddin wants India to include Jasprit Bumrah in the 11-member squad for the second Test
Former Australia wicket-keeper batter Brad Haddin also wants Team India to induct Bumrah in the 11-member squad. He also said he would also include Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh in the team.
“I am playing him in this Test match, especially in England conditions because the next Test they get to might be a rain-affected Test. You just dont know what the Test will look like. So I am playing him, I am making a few changes to the Indian team," remarked Haddin.
