Selection Under Scrutiny

Former pace bowler and selector Salil Ankola raised pressing questions about Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. Ankola said, “If Bumrah is touring England as a team member, he must play the fourth Test; he must play all the matches”. He objected strongly to the perception that Bumrah could pick and choose Tests, arguing no player historical or current has enjoyed such liberty when playing for India

Bumrah – Fitness Clarity Demand

Ankola insisted selectors clarify Bumrah’s fitness level. He asked if team doctors and physios had declared the pacer fully ready to bowl. Ankola noted that if Bumrah remains unsure of his fitness, team management should reconsider his place on the tour. He emphasized that national duty should override personal preference.

XI Shake-Up at Old Trafford

Ankola also questioned India’s bowling combination for the bouncy and windy conditions at Old Trafford. He urged the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, describing him as a “match-winning wrist-spinner” who has worked hard on fitness and form. Ankola argued India must not rely solely on batting firepower. He called for four specialist bowlers Bumrah, Kuldeep, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep, to trigger a bowling-dominated approach.

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Shifts in India’s Approach

India leads the series 2–1, with the fourth Test serving as a must-win. Ankola stressed that taking twenty wickets, rather than scoring runs, would determine the match outcome. He pointed out that opponents like England crack against quality wrist-spin, making Kuldeep a key addition. Ankola also acknowledged alternatives like Washington Sundar or Ravindra Jadeja, but reinforced the need for specialist bowlers.

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