Irfan Pathan points out India's missed opportunity after Test team selection against West Indies

Just before the one week of the beginning of the two-match home Test series against West Indies, the selection committee announced the 15-member Indian Test squad. After the team selection, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan pointed out India's missed opportunity. 

It was expected that the Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah would be rested for the upcoming home Test series against the West Indies due to workload management, although the pacer is known for his commitment to Test cricket. However, it was surprising that Bumrah had been selected in the Test squad. In fact, the pacer is likely to be available for selection for both Test matches, while he is currently busy in the Asia Cup 2025, where they will play the Final against Pakistan this Sunday (September 28).

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It seems like a missed opportunity not to play a young fast bowler: Irfan Pathan

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan feels that India missed a great opportunity as a young fast bowler could have been selected instead of Bumrah to strengthen the pace bowling team. However, Pathan has also praised Bumrah for his impressive Test commitment, who is also battling with his fitness. 

Pathan said on his YouTube channel, “It seems like a missed opportunity not to play a young fast bowler in these two Tests, but that’s the team’s current direction. If I were a selector or manager, I would have surely tried to give a young fast bowler an opportunity, focusing on their development, not just quick results. Bumrah remains committed to Test cricket, which is fantastic.” 

Talking about a young pace bowler opportunity in the upcoming home Test series against West Indies, Pathan has pointed out the importance of the Indian pace-bowling team for the long-term purpose. 

Pathan added, “Still, it’s good that Bumrah maintains Test cricket as his priority. Selectors could have utilised this series to give proper rest to Bumrah and groom a young fast bowler, something India must prioritise for long-term vision. India needs a group of eight good fast bowlers, not just three or four.” 

Does this mean Kuldeep Yadav may miss out again?

Meanwhile, Axar Patel has been named in the Test squad along with new vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. While Pathan is happy for Axar's return, he also fears that Kuldeep Yadav may miss out once again in Test cricket.

Pathan said, “Axar’s return strengthens the team. When Axar plays alongside Washington and Jadeja, the team gains batting depth. Does this mean Kuldeep Yadav may miss out again? I would definitely want to see him play, but with home conditions generally allowing only two fast bowlers, his spot is not guaranteed.”