India’s ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return to the playing XI for the fourth Test in Manchester as the high-stakes five-match series against England enters a critical stage. With the hosts leading 2–1, India faces a must-win scenario at Old Trafford to keep the series alive.
Bumrah’s Return: A Strategic Boost
Bumrah, who has played two of the three Tests so far in the series, was rested for the third match in Birmingham to manage his workload following back surgery. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that India had planned for Bumrah to feature in three of the five Tests and are now leaning toward deploying him in Manchester, considering the importance of the fixture and favorable pitch conditions.
Bumrah has already made a significant impact in the series with two five-wicket hauls. However, both matches resulted in losses for India, underscoring the need for a complete team effort to capitalize on his individual brilliance. His expected return could give the bowling attack the edge it needs to break through England’s resilient batting order.
Fitness Update: Rishabh Pant Ready for Full Workload
Another positive sign for India is the improving condition of Rishabh Pant, who is recovering from a minor finger injury. Pant did not bat during the recent practice session but is expected to be fully fit to perform both wicketkeeping and batting duties in Manchester.
Ten Doeschate expressed confidence in Pant’s recovery timeline, suggesting that the management is optimistic about his availability and impact on the game. Pant’s presence adds balance to the side, especially with his ability to turn matches with counter-attacking innings in the middle order.
Experts Urge Bumrah’s Inclusion
Former England spinner Monty Panesar has strongly advocated for Bumrah’s inclusion in the Manchester Test. He emphasized that if India wants to level the series, Bumrah’s presence is non-negotiable. Panesar noted that Old Trafford is a surface where Bumrah’s unique seam position and ability to extract bounce and movement could prove deadly, especially under overcast conditions.
Team India’s Calm Yet Focused Build-Up
Despite being under pressure, the Indian camp exudes confidence. The players were seen in a relaxed training session at Kent County Cricket Ground, with Bumrah and Pant sharing light-hearted moments, indicating a healthy team environment ahead of the crunch match.
This calm demeanor could prove crucial as the pressure mounts. Team India knows they need to bounce back quickly to avoid conceding the series and head into the final Test at The Oval with a fighting chance.
What to Expect at Old Trafford
- Pitch conditions: Old Trafford traditionally offers seam movement and rewards disciplined fast bowling—conditions tailor-made for Bumrah.
- Bowling strategy: India will aim to rotate their pacers effectively while using Bumrah as a strike weapon in both innings.
- Series context: A win would level the series 2–2, while a loss would hand England an unassailable 3–1 lead.
Series Scenarios
| Outcome | Series Score | Implications |
| India wins | 2–2 | Decider at The Oval |
| England wins | 3–1 | Series secured by England |
| Draw | 2–1 (ENG) | England retains the lead, India under pressure in final Test |
Conclusion
As India prepares for the fourth Test in Manchester, the spotlight is firmly on Jasprit Bumrah’s return and Rishabh Pant’s recovery. With the series hanging in the balance, their performances could be decisive in determining the outcome. For India, it’s not just about survival—it’s about sending a message, regaining momentum, and keeping the series alive.
The team management must weigh form, fitness, and strategy to make the right call. If Bumrah is unleashed at Old Trafford, expect fireworks and a fiercely contested Test that could redefine this summer’s cricketing narrative.
