Team India’s preparations for the second Test against England at Edgbaston have hit a roadblock, with key pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna missing the first training session, raising fresh concerns over the team’s bowling strength. The development comes after India’s five-wicket defeat in the series opener at Headingley, where the bowling unit struggled to defend a 350-run target on the final day.
🚫 Bumrah’s Availability in Doubt
According to reports, Bumrah is likely to be rested for the second Test as part of a workload management strategy, having bowled 44 overs in the first match. His absence could be a major blow, especially considering his five-wicket haul in England’s first innings at Leeds.
- Bumrah skipped Friday’s session, sparking speculation about his fitness and availability
- Head coach Gautam Gambhir has reiterated that Bumrah will be assessed match-by-match, regardless of the series scoreline
🏏 Prasidh Krishna Also Absent, Siraj Trains with Bat
Prasidh Krishna also missed the opening nets session, further compounding India’s pace worries. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj was present but did not bowl, instead focusing on batting drills with coach Sitanshu Kotak, highlighting India’s intent to strengthen its lower-order resilience.
🔄 Arshdeep Singh Likely to Step In
Arshdeep Singh, who did not feature in the first Test, underwent an intense session with bowling coach Morne Morkel, working on his run-up, back-foot landing, and alignment. With Bumrah’s availability uncertain, Arshdeep is now the frontrunner to make the playing XI at Edgbaston.
🧠 Tactical Recalibration Underway
India’s bowling unit appeared toothless in the Leeds Test’s final innings, with England chasing down 350 comfortably. The team’s current focus is on:
- Rebuilding bowling intensity in the absence of senior pacers
- Improving lower-order batting to add depth and resilience
- Monitoring player workloads ahead of a long five-Test series
Stay tuned as India looks to level the series in Birmingham.
