England will be happy if Jasprit Bumrah is playing three Test matches: Ian Bell

Former England cricketer Ian Bell expressed his surprise over India’s decision to restrict Jasprit Bumrah to only three Tests in the five-match series against England. Bell noted that the decision, reportedly made by head coach Gautam Gambhir after the series opener, could work in England’s favour if Bumrah is rested despite being fit. Referring to Bumrah as “the best fast bowler in the world,” Bell emphasised that a player of his calibre should be on the field in crucial matches, especially when the outcome of the series could be at stake.

Speaking to India Today, Bell stated that if Bumrah is fit, he should play, regardless of workload considerations, as his presence would significantly strengthen India’s chances. He added that England would be relieved if Bumrah misses out, given the threat he poses. Bell also suggested that India should consider playing Kuldeep Yadav alongside Ravindra Jadeja to bring more variation into the spin attack. According to the former top-order batter, Kuldeep’s inclusion would add a different dimension to India’s bowling unit and better balance the team against England’s aggressive batting lineup.

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"Kuldeep is bowling beautifully. Someone who can spin it both ways is always a threat - especially to England's lower order. India will need to decide whether they want someone like Washington Sundar who can assist Ravindra Jadeja, or get Kuldeep Yadav, who is a much better wicket-taking option," Ian Bell said.

Just to manage his workload: Gill

The second Test between England and India kicked off on Wednesday, July 2, at Edgbaston, with India opting to rest star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking about the move, India captain Shubman Gill confirmed that Bumrah was left out to manage his workload and ensure his availability for the third Test at Lord’s. The team is hoping to bounce back after losing the series opener at Headingley, where England chased down a daunting 371-run target in the fourth innings to secure a five-wicket win and take a 1-0 lead.

A big factor in England's successful chase was Ben Duckett's fantastic contribution. The left-handed Duckett scored a match-winning 149 in England's second innings just after he made 62 in the first to win the Player of the Match award. The stroke play and aggression Duckett showed put India's bowlers under pressure as England cruised to the target. Shubman Gill's side will hope to reset and produce a better performance in Edgbaston to level the series. If Bumrah is available for the Lord's Test, India's pace attack will hope to get back giving the opposition something to think about in the rest of this eagerly anticipated five-Test series.

"No Bumrah. Just to manage his workload. We did get a good break and this is an important match for us. But the third Test being at Lord's, we think there'll be more in that pitch so we'll use him there," Gill said after losing the toss at Edgbaston.