The 2025 season of the Asia Cup is knocking on the door as most teams have started their last-minute preparation. India, since the end of the fifth Test of the five-match series against England at the Kennington Oval, hasn’t played any competitive game and will turn up straight into the event.

They will be back in action in the T20 format of the Asia Cup. Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the United Arab Emirates are preparing for a tri-series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, while Sri Lanka is facing Zimbabwe in an away T20I series. India’s opening game against the Arab Emirates will be on September 10 in Abu Dhabi.

Shubman Gill, after his famous 750+ run series in the United Kingdom during the summer, has returned to the shortest format with an additional responsibility of T20I captaincy. Suryakumar Yadav is the leader of the group, as Jitesh Sharma, the wicket-keeper batter, is expected to come at number six in the batting line-up.

Let’s take a look at the top 3 players to watch from India ahead of Asia Cup 2025.

3. Hardik Pandya

India’s premier pace bowling all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, brings the best balance to the team in the shortest format. With his ability, he can bat at number six in the lower order and can also offer four overs with the ball in the middle order. That provided the management with the option to play either an extra batter or bowler in the eleven.

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Overall, Hardik has smashed 1812 runs in 90 innings of T20Is at an average of 27.87 and a strike rate of 141.67, with the help of five half-centuries at the best score of unbeaten 71 runs. In the bowling department, the right-arm pacer has picked up 94 wickets in 102 innings at an average of 26.43 and an economy rate of 8.20, thanks to the best figure of 4/16 in an inning.

During the IPL 2025, for the Mumbai Indians, Hardik smashed 224 runs in 12 innings at an average of 24.88 and a strike rate of 163.50 with the best score of unbeaten 48 runs. With the ball, he collected 14 wickets at an economy rate of under 10.

In T20s, Hardik has overall drilled 5575 runs in 263 innings at an average of just under 30 and a strike rate of 142.47 with 21 fifties, while with the ball, he has picked 204 wickets at an average of 28.11 in 242 innings.

2. Suryakumar Yadav

India’s T20 captain, Suryakumar Yadav, is known for his aggressive batting skills in the shortest format of the game. At number four, the right-handed batter has displayed all the power and skills to blossom in batting.

In 79 innings of the shortest format, Sky has smashed 2598 runs at an average of 42.33 and a strike rate of 167.07, thanks to four centuries and 21 half-centuries at the best score of 117 runs. On the other hand, in overall T20s, he has clubbed 8620 runs in 301 innings at an average of 35.47 and a strike rate of 153.32 with six centuries and 59 fifties.

During the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League, the Mumbai batter has got 717 runs in just 16 innings at an average of 65.18 and a strike rate of 167.91 with five fifties at the best score of unbeaten 73 runs.

3. Jasprit Bumrah

The premier pacer of the Blue Brigade, Jasprit Bumrah, is the best all-format bowler in world cricket. Whether it’s about bowling with the new ball inside the powerplay, or in the middle overs, or at the death, the Ahmedabad-born has displayed his various skills.

On T20Is, the right-arm pacer has picked up 89 wickets in 69 innings at an average of under 18 and a strike rate of 16.9 with an economy rate of just over six, thanks to the best figures of 3/7. His contribution with the ball during the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa in Barbados was a prime example of how vital the player is for the Blue Brigade.

During the IPL 2025, the Gujarat bowler collected 18 wickets in 12 innings at an average of under 18 and a strike rate of 15.7 with an economy rate of 6.67, thanks to the best bowling figure of 4/22 in an innings. In the overall 244 T20 innings, he has grabbed 313 scalps in an average of 20.22 and an economy rate of under seven.

If these three players of the Indian team do well in the batting and bowling departments, the Blue Brigade will have the best chance to defend their title, which they won during the 2023 Asia Cup in the 50-over version. The vital game will be against Pakistan on September 14 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the UAE.

Cricket in the Indian subcontinent has always been known for producing world-class spinners, but over the years, some outstanding fast bowlers have also left their mark. Among them, Pakistan stood out during the 1990s for consistently developing legendary pacers.

Legends such as Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar became famous for their sheer pace and game-changing performances. Their ability to swing the ball at high speed made Pakistan’s bowling attack one of the most feared in world cricket. At the same time, India was seen as a batting powerhouse, heavily depending on its star-studded line-up to deliver victories.

Things began to change significantly in the mid-2010s when Virat Kohli took over as Indian captain. Under his leadership, special focus was placed on building a strong pace unit. That vision gave rise to exceptional fast bowlers such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, who turned India into a formidable bowling side.

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Wasim Akram vs Jasprit Bumrah- Who is Best? Pakistani Legend Shares His Thoughts:

Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest bowlers Pakistan has ever produced, dominating world cricket during his era with unmatched skill and consistency. In today’s game, India’s Jasprit Bumrah has emerged as one of the finest all-format fast bowlers of his generation, often dismantling batting lineups with his pace, accuracy, and variations.

This rise has sparked ongoing debates on social media about whether Bumrah surpasses the legendary Akram. Fans and analysts frequently compare their impact across eras, fueling heated discussions. Recently, Wasim Akram himself addressed the question during an appearance on GEOTV’s ‘Haarna Mana Hai’ show, offering his perspective on the much-talked-about comparison between two of cricket’s most iconic fast bowlers.

Wasim Akram said, “ Jasprit Bumrah is a wonderful bowler. He has an odd action, has pace, and credit to the Indian cricket board for the way they manage him and their mindset. Comparisons between the 90s and now are impossible. He is right-handed and I am a left-armer.”

He further said, “ We keep social media debates—Begano ki Shadi Me Abdulla Diwana. Neither I care nor he cares. They are fighting among themselves. He is a modern-day great. I was in my era. I did my job. He is a very impressive bowler, I must say.”

Wasim Akram talking about Bumrah's greatness and the useless comparision b/w 2 great bowlers of different eras in his latest interview #Bumrah #WasimAkram #AsiaCup pic.twitter.com/4lBJhlcVTN

— Cover Drive (@day6596) August 31, 2025

Wasim Akram Also Talks About Siraj’s Brilliance:

Recently, Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers in cricket history, praised Mohammed Siraj’s brilliant spell in England. He described the Indian pacer’s display as the best bowling performance he has witnessed in recent times, highlighting Siraj’s growing impact on the game.

He said, “ I rarely watch cricket when I'm not working, but I was glued to the last day. Siraj was full of hunger and passion – it was an incredible effort. To bowl nearly 186 overs across five Tests and still be that fiery on the final day shows remarkable stamina and mental strength.”

He added, “ He's not just a support bowler anymore. He's leading the attack and doing it with heart. Even when a catch went down– that of Brook – he didn't lose focus. That's the mark of a fighter. Test cricket is alive and kicking.”

Since the end of the recently concluded five-match Test series between England and India, the tourists’ premier pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, has been criticized for not playing the fifth and final game at the Kennington Oval in South London. One of the reasons for that decision was that Ahmedabad-born played the fourth Test in Manchester while the BCCI wanted to keep him fresh and fit for the Asia Cup 2025. 

The former World Cup-winning member of India, Balwinder Sandhu, has decoded how the right-arm pacer has been continuously bowling across formats. The Gujarat pacer has an average rest day of 3.2 in 42 Test matches he has played, which is the lowest in comparison to 3.5 and 3.7 of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.

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“If you compare Bumrah to legends like Kapil, Akram, Hadlee, or Marshall, they all had smoother biomechanics and long careers, but even they weren’t spared from injuries. Research has shown that about 40% of a pacer’s speed comes from the momentum of the run-up. Bumrah, with his slow run-up, puts extra load on his body to generate that pace.” Sandhu wrote in his column.

Balwinder Sandhu compares Jasprit Bumrah and other legendary pacers’ bowling actions

The former pace bowler of India looked back at the time when Bumrah was at the National Cricket Academy before breaking into the national side. He also admitted that they didn’t think of the pacer lasting long in the national cricket because of the strenuous action and workload demands of a fast bowler.

“Instead of hammering these bowlers for ‘choosing matches,’ let’s enjoy watching them perform whenever they can. Enjoy the skills, the execution, the moments they create. Because if you dig deeper, you may find that the choices aren’t entirely theirs- sometimes the silence and incompetence of those in charge plays a part.” Sandhu oberseved in the same column. 

“Today’s players don’t have that luxury of privacy. Everywhere they go, fans, media, and smartphones follow. Fame now comes with influencer deals, paparazzi, sponsor obligations, and the pressure of keeping up with millions of followers. The money is massive, and so is the responsibility. And that’s what we often forget.” The 69-year-old concluded. 

A milestone match for Team India and Jasprit Bumrah. Through the West Indies vs India Test match in Antigua in 2019, Jasprit Bumrah became the first Asian bowler to claim 5-wicket figures in Australia, England, South Africa, and the West Indies. 

The pacer achieved this record in only his 11th test of his career. And on August 25, 2019, he helped the Virat Kohli-led team India to get their biggest away win in terms of runs. India won the match by 318 runs. Despite heroics from Bumrah, Ajinkya Rahane got the man of the match award for his relentless batting performance. He scored 81 and 102 runs in the first and second innings, respectively.

Before Bumrah's 5-wicket haul, Ishant Sharma bagged 5 scalps in the first phase of the game. The first innings of the match was a close fight between two teams; India registered 297 runs, and the West Indies scored 222. India increased the lead by miles in the second innings by scoring 343/7d. Jason Holder and his boys bundled for only 100 while chasing a target of 419 runs.

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5 wickets in 8 overs

The magical spell from Jasprit Bumrah destroyed the batting order of the West Indies. The pacer took 5 wickets in the decisive innings in 8 overs, offering only 7 runs. Experienced fast bowler Ishant Sharma once again showed his class by taking 3 wickets; Mohammed Shami struck twice in the process. 

"Bumrah bowled really well, one of those spells that will dislodge most top-order players," said Holder, then the captain of the West Indies, to praise Jasprit Bumrah's fiery bowling. 

Bumrah himself said after the match, "I am feeling very good. As a bowling unit, we came with attacking options. A lot of hard work goes into my delivery... I'm always trying to evolve.

West Indies vs India, August 22 - 25, 2019:

India: 297 & 343/7d

West Indies: (T:419) 222 & 100

India won the match by 318 runs.

Many claim that one of the biggest reasons for the world-class pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, being so successful is his bowling action, which is unique and consistently outsmarts the batters. Even though it could be addressed as a small advantage, his body comes under so much stress, making him a regular candidate for various injuries. That’s why the BCCI has been cautious in managing his workload.

The former Indian bowling coach, Bharat Arun, explained that the Ahmedabad-born changed his bowling action after he failed to qualify for the Under-19 side in 2013 when the selection trials happened at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. That was when the fast bowler impressed Arun with his pace.

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“In all fairness, we also tried to change Bumrah’s action. He was remodeled, but then the action was great, and the ball was not going quickly. What’s the point in having a great action if the balls aren’t effective? He could bowl quickly, and so we discussed with the physio and the strength and conditioning coach. We said, I wouldn’t want to touch his action because it’s very unique and generates a lot of pace.” Arun expressed on the latest episode of Bombay Sports Exchange.

Bharat Arun explains how Jasprit Bumrah builds his fitness like Virat Kohli

Bumrah was advised to work on his fitness and bowling action. That was when he accepted it and gave up on the pizzas, burgers, and other fast foods as Arun compared his dedication towards fitness with the former Indian captain, Virat Kohli.

“We called him (Bumrah) and told him: ‘To take the impact of fast bowling, you need to be like a bull. That comes down to diet, exercise, and sacrifices.’ In all fairness, Bumrah instantaneously changed. He started eating healthy, and he was working out in the gym. Like Virat Kohli, he was extremely dedicated.” Bharat explained.

Across formats, for India or any other side, Bumrah is the most important bowler of the side. He recently missed the fifth Test in England at the Kennington Oval due to workload, which received so much criticism. He is now a part of the 15-member Asia Cup 2025 squad and can play a huge role in defending the title.

Hardik Pandya has been a superb power hitter in the lower order of the Indian cricket team and for the Mumbai Indians in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Coming into number five or six, the right-handed batter has always contributed with the big shots to provide the teams a chance to finish on a high in the innings.

On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah is a premier pacer of India and world cricket across formats. The right-arm pacer has the skill of foxing such batters with his smart bowling, thunder yorkers, and change of pace. Bumrah also carries the ability of picking wickets with the new ball inside the powerplay.

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A viral has gone viral in the social media where it has come most probably from the net session of the IPL 2025 for the Mumbai Indians between Pandya and Bumrah. The first of the three-ball set to the all-rounder from the bowler was a length ball outside the off-stump to which Hardik swung his willow for a six.

Watch: Hardik Pandya faces Jasprit Bumrah in MI nets during IPL 2025 as video goes viral 

The second ball of the set from the Ahmedabad-born was a low full toss into the legs as the right-handed batter timed it perfectly into the ropes for a boundary. Bumrah perhaps aimed to get the yorker but mistimed it to a low full toss. But as he does, Bumrah hardly missed any yorker. The third ball was on the root of the stumps as Pandya had no clue apart from seeing his stumps getting rattled.

 

 

 

 

 

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During the IPL, both these players have face each other, when Pandya was appointed the captain of the Gujarat Titans for two seasons of the league when he left the Mumbai side in 2022 and 2023. During those two editions, Bumrah bowled six balls at Pandya, who was able to get just three runs in reply without getting dismissed.

Both players have been selected in the 15-member squad for India for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in the United Arab Emirates. They will look to bring their best performance with bat and ball respectively to defend their title from the last edition which they won in 2023 for the 50-over format.

The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The tournament will feature eight competitive teams, all aiming to lift the prestigious trophy in what promises to be an exciting cricketing contest.

India has already revealed its squad for the event, showcasing a strong and balanced lineup. The selectors have ensured that the team includes experienced performers as well as young talents who can make a difference on the big stage. With a packed schedule and intense competition expected, India’s preparation looks solid going into the tournament.

However, the squad announcement also brought mixed emotions for fans. While some big names have successfully made a comeback to the side, others were left out of the tournament. These selection decisions are likely to spark discussions, but they also highlight the depth of talent available in Indian cricket today.

See Also: Asia Cup 2025: Strongest Playing XI for India

Highlights of India’s Squad for Asia Cup 2025:

After announcing the squad, Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav spoke to the media, discussing team selections, player roles, and India’s preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

They discussed player selections, exclusions, and the overall balance of the team. Both provided clarity on the decision-making process and highlighted key aspects of the squad, offering insights into India’s plans for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

• Shubman Gill included in the Asia Cup Squad as Vice Captain

Shubman Gill has returned to India’s T20 squad after a long gap, with his last appearance in the shortest format coming during the Sri Lanka series in July 2024. Over the past year, he has impressed with consistent and impactful performances in other formats, which eventually earned him a well-deserved comeback. Gill has been appointed vice-captain for Asia Cup 2025, reflecting the selectors’ strong confidence in his leadership and abilities.

At the squad announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained Shubman Gill’s selection and his expected role within the team. He hinted at Gill’s strong chances of featuring in the playing XI, underlining his versatility and ability to anchor the innings while also adapting to the team’s needs.

He said, “ We will take the call on the best balance for the team. Once we get to Dubai, will have a bit more clarity. More options available now, Shubman has been in great form anyway last few months. So has Sanju. so two good options, along with Abhishek.”

• Shreyas Iyer misses out Asia Cup Squad

Shreyas Iyer has not featured in T20Is for India since 2023, but his recent IPL form raised expectations of a comeback. His solid performances in the tournament made many believe he had done enough to earn a recall.

He returned strongly during the 2025 Champions Trophy, playing a vital role in India’s middle order and helping the team lift the trophy. Despite clearing his fitness test at the NCA, Iyer was left out of the Asia Cup 2025 squad. The decision surprised fans and experts alike, especially after his consistent contributions earlier in the year.

On Shreyas’s exclusion, Ajit Agarkar said, “ With respect to Shreyas, who can he replace? It's not his fault, but neither ours.”

• Yashasvi Jaiswal isn’t part of Asia Cup Squad

Yashasvi Jaiswal, recognized for his aggressive batting style, missed out on a place in India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad due to stiff competition among openers. Instead, he has been named in the standby list for the tournament. Earlier, Jaiswal was also included in India’s T20 World Cup squad but did not get an opportunity to feature in the playing XI, leaving him eager for future chances.

Ajit Agarkar informed, “ It’s unfortunate. With what Abhishek has done over the last year or so, plus he give us a bowling option is required. One of these guys was always going to miss out.”

• Jitesh Sharma’s Comeback in the Squad

Jitesh Sharma’s consistent performances in the IPL as a wicketkeeper-batter have earned him a spot in the Asia Cup squad. With Rishabh Pant unavailable, Jitesh provides a reliable option behind the stumps while also adding depth to the batting lineup. His aggressive stroke play and ability to handle pressure make him a valuable inclusion, strengthening India’s middle order in crucial situations during the tournament.

• Jasprit Bumrah is back in the Asia Cup Squad

Jasprit Bumrah, a key performer in the T20 World Cup, returns to play in the Asia Cup after a long break. Despite missing the first half of the IPL, he delivered strong performances upon his return. During the England tour, he was rested before the final match, leaving uncertainty about his Asia Cup participation. Now that he is part of the main squad, he is expected to be the mainstay of India’s bowling attack in the UAE.

Agarkar said, “ I don’t think there’s any written plan. Been a nice break after the England series. Physios, team management been in touch. Clearly we want him available for all the big games. There are World Cups, Champions Trophy, big series like England, Australia - you want him available. Because he’s picked up injuries over the last 2-3 years, because of how special and unique it is - it won’t change. Based on how he’s feeling and how we require him, we hope he’s available more often than not.”

• Team India’s Spin Trio: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav & Varun Chakaravarthy

Team India’s spin department for the Asia Cup 2025 features Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakaravarthy. All three impressed during the Champions Trophy in Dubai, showcasing their skills in crucial moments.

Axar Patel has been outstanding with both bat and ball, providing balance as an all-rounder. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy excelled with their spin bowling, offering variation and control. The selectors aimed to include two wrist-spin options in Kuldeep and Varun, with Axar strengthening the team as a reliable all-rounder.

• Team India’s Pace Trio: Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana & Arshdeep Singh

India’s pace attack for the Asia Cup 2025 includes Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, and Arshdeep Singh. Bumrah missed the Champions Trophy due to injury, but his vast experience and skill make him a key asset in any condition. He is expected to lead India’s bowling attack and play a pivotal role in the UAE conditions.

Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh were part of India’s squad in the Champions Trophy. Harshit impressed in Dubai with his exceptional bowling skills, while Arshdeep, though not playing, proved his value with variations and technique. Both are set to strengthen India’s pace department in the tournament.

Team India’s Squad for the Upcoming Asia Cup:

Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh

Standby Players: Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal

In what was a fabulous off-field memory, India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah received a signed AC Milan jersey from football's great, Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Bumrah shared his sheer happiness on social media, holding Ibrahimovic's No. 11 jersey. The pacer stated, “Woohoo, words fall short. Ecstatic.” The 31-year-old Bumrah thanked his wife, Sanjana Ganesan, for making the moment possible, making it an even better memory. 

Bumrah's Turnaround in Focus Ahead of the Asia Cup

While his signature jersey has fans buzzing, the good news for cricket is that Bumrah's anticipated return to India's squad for the Asia Cup 2025, starting on September 9 in the UAE. India will start their campaign against the hosts, the UAE, on September 10; the final is scheduled for September 28. 

Bumrah played the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy earlier this year, taking 14 wickets in three Tests, including two five-wicket hauls. Bumrah missed earlier this year on the Champions Trophy, where injury doubts with a lower back injury have now been cleared, and he has reportedly made himself available for selection.

Jasprit Bumrah received a signed Jersey as a gift from football Icon Zlatan Ibrahimović. 😍 pic.twitter.com/NVgzdD7cfq

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 19, 2025

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A Boost for Team India 

Bumrah’s inclusion will certainly boost India. He has been a proven match-winner for India in all formats with his skill, pace, and experience. Bumrah might also give Mohammed Siraj some time off after the Hyderabad pacer bowled all five Tests in England with long spells. 

Bumrah has not played white-ball cricket since the T20 World Cup final against South Africa in June 2024 and has not played ODI cricket since the 2023 World Cup final, so he will be raring to play in the continental event. 

Asia Cup 2025: Squad Out

With a signed jersey by Zlatan already making his week special, Bumrah wants to make equally special memories on the field when the Asia Cup gets underway.

So the date to unveil India's T20I squad for the Asia Cup 2025 has neared. While every Indian fan holds their breath in anticipation, one thing is most certainly clear. A massive announcement is around the corner with a very high chance of key players missing out, despite their stellar form. The Indian T20I squad are in the form of their life. Following their historic T20 World Cup win in 2024, the team has hardly put a foot wrong. India haven't lost a single T20I series ever since their second T20 World Cup title win, suffering just three losses in three T20I games.

Much of their success can be attributed to the splendid performances of the youngsters such as Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Washington Sundar, who have taken India to some inspiring T20I wins of late. As the youth and the experienced continue to perform well in tandem, the management will have to contend with a massive selection headache.

But all our doubts will be put to rest in the upcoming squad announcement press conference, which tentatively begins at 1:30 PM local time. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, along with the Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, will be in attendance today to field questions from the press conference. 

See also: Asia Cup 2025: Why Shubman Gill should be selected in the squad?

Key FAQ's from India's Asia Cup squad announcement press conference

Date and time of India's Asia Cup announcement PC? 

The press conference of India's Asia Cup squad announcement takes place on August 19 at 1:30 PM local time. 

Where will the Asia Cup squad announcement take place?

The BCCI Headquarters in Mumbai will stage the high-stakes Asia Cup announcement press conference.

Where to watch India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad on TV?

The press conference of India's Asia Cup squad announcement will be televised on the Star Sports 1 network.

Where will the Asia Cup squad announcement press conference be streamed in India?

India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement will be streamed on Jio Hotstar.

Additionally, the BCCI is also set to unveil India's ODI squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series in Australia and also look to finalize the women's squad for the grand Women's ODI World Cup in due course. 

The former Indian captain and the opening batter, Sunil Gavaskar, raised his voice a few days ago on Jasprit Bumrah getting managed for his workload by the BCCI selectors. His statement came after the Ahmedabad-born missed the fifth and final red-ball clash against England at Kennington Oval.

Gavaskar now wants the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee to avoid Bumrah’s services for the bilateral white-ball series in Australia and the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. He desires to see the Ahmedabad-born in full rhythm for the upcoming two-match home Test series against the West Indies in October. The former opener still felt that Bumrah could have played the fifth Oval affair.

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“Nobody is indispensable. That’s why it is of prime importance for the selectors to now decide when Jasprit Bumrah should be playing. There's already been a lot of debate about his appearances in the recently concluded series in England. To be fair, he had informed the selection committee that he could play only three Tests out of the five.” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-day.

Sunil Gavaskar wants India to rest Jasprit Bumrah for white-ball bilateral series  

The Ahmedabad-born has picked up 219 Test wickets in 91 innings at an average of under 20 and a strike rate of 42.6 with the help of 15 five-wicket hauls at the best figures of 6/27 in an innings. During the England trip, the right-arm pacer earned 14 wickets in three games, including two fifers.

“The debate that has generated some heat is whether he should have played the last must-win Test match, especially since it was the grassiest pitch at the Oval in a long time. The next Test match was in early October, and so there were two clear months for him to rest and recover in time for that. The Indian team management stated that he wasn't picked considering his future.” The Mumbai-born addressed.

“That's why now comes the tricky decision for the selectors. What is more important? Qualifying for the World Test Championship or playing some bilateral white ball games, which have no bearing at all. If India has to qualify for the WTC, then Jasprit Bumrah, being the premier fast bowler in the game, has to play in the four Tests that India have lined up between early October and late November.” Gavaskar concluded.