England vs India Final Test: Bumrah's Availability in Question – Gambhir on Selection Call

As India and England gear up for the crucial fifth and final Test at The Oval (July 31–August 4), all eyes are on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness. India currently trail 2‑1 in the series and must win to level. But whether their premier pacer will take the field remains uncertain.

Bumrah’s Workload & Health

Head coach Gautam Gambhir reaffirmed that India had always planned for Bumrah to play a maximum of three Test matches in the series, due to workload concerns and a lingering back stress reaction sustained earlier in the year. Although he has already featured in three Tests, no conclusive decision has yet been made about his participation in the Oval Test. Gambhir emphasized that while Bumrah is currently fit and available, India have not finalized the playing combination.

Gambhir’s Selection Philosophy

Gambhir has underscored the importance of long-term fitness over short-term gain. Even in the wake of one-sided performances—such as England’s record chase in Leeds that exposed Bumrah’s subdued form—he refused to deviate from the pre-set plan. He reiterated that India possesses enough depth in the pace department to perform without him, while also giving opportunities for others to step up.

What It Means for India’s Attack

India entered the Oval Test with a full complement of pace options: Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna—and the returning Nitish Kumar Reddy. The decision on whether Bumrah features may ultimately rest with the player himself, depending on how he feels physically. Captain Shubman Gill echoed this flexible approach: “If he feels fully fit and available, it would be a great deal for us. But even without him, we still have a strong bowling attack.”

Final Test Stakes

With the series on the line, India's bowling lineup could be tested under immense pressure. Bumrah, when at full throttle, is unmatched—but the team is prepared to adapt. Whether India dares to roll the dice and play him at the Oval remains to be seen.

No matter what unfolds, the Oval finale promises intense cricket drama: England eye their first series win over India since 2018, while India bank on strategic calmness and depth to complete a comeback in the world’s toughest format.

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