"I'll be shocked if he doesn't play" - Former India player's huge remark on Jasprit Bumrah ahead of 4th Test

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his thoughts ahead of the fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford. He expressed surprise at the idea of resting Jasprit Bumrah for this crucial match.

According to Manjrekar, it wouldn’t make much sense for India to bench Bumrah for the fourth Test, only to bring him back for the final one if the team loses in Manchester. He believes that with the series on the line, India must field their best XI, especially when a bowler like Bumrah is in top form.

Manjrekar emphasized that India cannot afford to take chances at this stage. He insisted that if Bumrah is fit, he must play, as a loss in this match would take the series out of India's control. His presence could be vital in keeping India's hopes alive in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

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Former Indian Player’s Remark on Jasprit Bumrah:

England secured a 22-run win over India in the third Test at Lord’s, gaining a 2-1 advantage in the five-match series. With the fourth Test set to begin on July 23 in Manchester, India must win to keep their hopes of a series victory alive. Jasprit Bumrah was seen in action in the opening Test in Leeds, was rested for the second one in Birmingham, and returned for the Lord’s match.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Sanjay Manjrekar talked about the importance of Bumrah’s presence in the upcoming Test. He noted that the long break between the third and fourth matches should give Bumrah enough time to recover and be fully fit for the Manchester Test.

He said, "There is no point in resting for this one and then losing the series and coming in for the final one. Plus, the ideal gap too. The first Test match, when he bowled in the second innings, he looked a little jaded and flat. You felt that he's feeling the load. Here [at Lord's], he was very keen to bowl that final spell as well. He bowled a slightly longer spell because he knew there was a big gap. The first time I was surprised when he didn't play the second Test, but this one, I'll be shocked if he doesn't play.”

Jasprit Bumrah is currently the second-highest wicket-taker in the India vs England Test series. Across two matches, He has taken 12 wickets. The Indian speedster delivered standout performances with two five-wicket hauls—one in the inaugural Test at Leeds and another in the first innings at Lord’s—showcasing his consistent impact with the ball in the ongoing series.