Blow for India after 1st Test loss: Jasprit Bumrah ruled out, Gill and Gambhir in total shock

Team India pace-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is reportedly expected to miss the upcoming second Test of the ongoing five-match series against England. India are considering alternate bowling combinations and strategies, with Mohammed Siraj likely to lead the pace attack in Bumrah’s absence.

India suffered a five-wicket defeat in the first Test at Headingley, where England successfully chased a 371-run target in the fourth innings. With the visitors now trailing 0-1, Jasprit Bumrah’s availability is crucial for the second Test, scheduled to take place at Edgbaston, Birmingham, from July 2 to 6.

Jasprit Bumrah Set to Miss Second Test Against England

According to a report by The Indian Express, India are likely to be without Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test due to workload management or as part of a strategic plan ahead of the Lord’s Test.

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In Bumrah’s absence, Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack. He will have to take on a central role, not just as the main strike bowler, but also as a mentor to the supporting pacers and a motivator for himself and the team.

"After losing the Headingley Test, which they should have won, they are likely to be without their MVP for the next. It could be the call of Lord’s or workload management; Jasprit Bumrah, after bowling 44 overs at Headingley, in all probability will sit out for the second Test at Edgbaston. He is expected to return for the third Test at the home of cricket in London on July 10," the report read.

Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj's Performances in Headingley Test

Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers for India in England's first innings during the Headingley Test. He registered figures of 5/83 in 24.4 overs, claiming his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests. However, he went wicketless in the second innings despite a strong start, conceding only 28 runs in his first 11 overs.

Bumrah gave away 26 runs in his next four overs, as England comfortably chased down the 371-run target. India’s bowling attack lacked adequate support around him. Mohammed Siraj picked up two wickets in the first innings but failed to make an impact in the second.

While both Bumrah and Siraj created early pressure in the second innings, first-change bowlers Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur released the grip, allowing England’s batters to score freely and take control of the chase.

Jasprit Bumrah's Biggest Challenge Throughout His Stellar Career…

Bumrah's biggest challenge throughout his stellar career has been staying fit. Despite being India's most valuable player across formats, his injuries have kept him out of action. He suffered a thumb fracture in 2018, followed by a back stress fracture in 2019.

He missed the final Test of the 2020-21 BGT due to an abdominal strain, and another major back injury ruled him out from mid-2022 until September 2023. Bumrah played the first four Tests but picked up another back injury in the series finale during the 2024-25 Australia tour at Sydney.

He then missed white-ball matches and the Champions Trophy. Given his track record, the Indian team management may need to manage Bumrah’s workload more cautiously, especially in Test cricket, to avoid further setbacks.

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