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Jasprit Bumrah Rested for Oval Test: India Reshuffles Pace Line-Up Ahead of Series Finale

India's ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval. With the series hanging at 2-1 in England’s favour, selectors aim to preserve Bumrah’s fitness as India looks to level the series.

Bumrah Rested for Oval Test as India Eyes Series Level in England

India will miss their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah in the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval starting Tomorrow. The decision, guided by the BCCI’s medical team, reflects long-term caution over Bumrah’s workload and chronic back concerns.

Though the decision aligns with pre-tour planning, the timing is crucial as India seeks to level the series 2-2 against England. Bumrah’s dip in pace at Old Trafford and his reduced effectiveness - highlighted by just 0.5% deliveries above 140kph - reinforced the need for rest.

Akash Deep is expected to return to the XI, having impressed with movement and rhythm during Tuesday’s practice. He was outstanding in the second Test at Edgbaston, claiming 10 wickets, but will need to prove consistency on a seam-friendly Oval pitch.

Mohammed Siraj, India's most dependable quick this series, will continue to lead the attack. With concerns over the form and fitness of Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur, and Anshul Kamboj, selectors may opt for a mix of experience and recovery, including Arshdeep Singh, now fit after a hand injury.

Batting depth may sway India’s decision to retain Thakur, despite his bowling form, especially with young wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel stepping in for the injured Rishabh Pant. Kuldeep Yadav may again miss out as The Oval's green patches and overcast forecast favour seamers.

Statistics bolster that strategy: fast bowlers have dominated at The Oval this season, taking 131 of 150 wickets. India will hope their reshuffled attack strikes gold in London.(source-espncricinfo)

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