By Rohit - Aug 01, 2025 05:40 PM
London, July 31, 2025 – In a significant development during the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the release of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah from the Indian squad for the fifth and final Test against England at Kennington Oval, London. The decision, the board clarified, is part of a workload management strategy, ensuring the star fast bowler's long-term fitness and performance sustainability.
Bumrah's absence from the playing XI had already sparked speculation after he wasn’t seen boarding the team bus ahead of Day 2 at The Oval. Later in the day, the BCCI issued a formal statement confirming that the ace pacer had been released from the squad entirely.
“Mr Jasprit Bumrah has been released from India's squad for the fifth Test of the series against England. The fifth and final Test of the series is underway at Kennington Oval, London,” said the BCCI in an official statement on Friday.
The move, while surprising to fans hoping to see Bumrah in action for the series decider, aligns with a pre-series workload plan communicated by chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. They had earlier indicated that Bumrah would not be fielded in more than three Tests during the England tour.
“We obviously want to wheel him out, but we also want to respect where his body is at,” explained India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate at the close of Day 1. “If you look at the loads, he's bowled a lot of overs… and like he said coming into the tour, he was going to be available for three games. We just felt it was right on that call.”
Despite missing two matches in the series, Jasprit Bumrah has been India’s standout bowler, taking 14 wickets in three Tests—including two five-wicket hauls—at an average of 26 from 119.4 overs. His performances at Headingley, Lord’s, and Old Trafford were pivotal in giving India a fighting edge.
His notable spells of reverse swing and pinpoint yorkers reaffirmed his status as India’s leading wicket-taker in the series, and one of the finest fast bowlers in world cricket today.
With Bumrah officially out, India heads into the final Test with a revised squad led by Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul serving as vice-captain. The team management has a pool of young and experienced players to choose from:
While Bumrah’s absence will undoubtedly be felt in a high-stakes final match, India’s think-tank is clearly playing the long game. With a packed international calendar ahead—including the ICC World Test Championship and multiple limited-overs series—managing Bumrah's workload is crucial for preserving one of the country’s most valuable cricketing assets.
India will be hoping the young pace unit can step up in the Oval Test and carry forward the momentum in the absence of their bowling lynchpin.
Give Your Feedback