As the fourth Test approaches at Old Trafford, India are grappling with a key decision — whether or not to field star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Meanwhile, England are poised to seal the series but continue to wrestle with issues in their top order.
Here’s a look at three major talking points ahead of Wednesday’s Test:
Bumrah’s Fitness Under the Spotlight
India trail 2-1 in the five-match series after a tight 22-run loss at Lord’s. With the series hanging in the balance, the management must carefully consider Bumrah’s availability.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir had previously confirmed that Bumrah would only feature in three matches due to a recurring back injury. The 31-year-old quick played in the first and third Tests — both losses — and sat out the second, which India won.
Choosing to play Bumrah in Manchester could mean he misses a potential decider in the fifth Test. However, with injuries to allrounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and seamer Arshdeep Singh, the pressure to include him has intensified.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said:
“We know we have him available for only one of the last two matches. With the series on the line, there’s a strong chance he’ll play in Manchester.”
England’s Inconsistent Top Order
Despite being on the brink of a series win, England still have questions around their top-order stability.
Opener Zak Crawley managed only 18 and 22 at Lord’s, while partner Ben Duckett was dismissed cheaply for 23 and 12. No. 3 Ollie Pope showed promise with a 44 in the first innings but fell for 4 in the second.
Crawley, known for his big scores — including a double century against Pakistan — remains a polarizing figure due to his inconsistency. Despite calls for change, England seem committed to their current opening pair.
Captain Ben Stokes remarked:
“They complement each other — left-hand, right-hand. One is a giant, one is not. It’s hard for bowlers to settle in.”
Allrounder Duel: Jadeja vs Stokes
Both teams will be looking to their experienced allrounders for game-changing performances once again.
Ben Stokes was instrumental in England’s Lord’s win, contributing 77 runs across two innings, taking five wickets, and effecting a key run-out. His 44 overs — including long final-day spells — marked his highest bowling workload in over six years.
Joe Root praised his skipper’s commitment:
“It was an incredible effort, but that’s just who he is. He wants to be the man who makes the difference.”
On the Indian side, Ravindra Jadeja stood firm with an unbeaten 61 in the second innings, nearly guiding India to a tense win. The 36-year-old has been a consistent performer, with scores of 72 at Lord’s and key contributions in Edgbaston as well.
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak lauded his value:
“Jadeja has the ability to absorb pressure. With his experience, he always delivers what the team needs in challenging moments.”
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