Jasprit Bumrah Skips 3rd Test to Prepare for Australia Tour

In a surprising turn, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah will sit out the third Test match against New Zealand, starting this Friday in Mumbai. Reports indicate that the Indian team management initially intended to rest Bumrah during the second Test in Pune, but due to India’s loss in the opening match in Bengaluru, he was brought into the lineup. India now trails the series 0-2, ending a dominant home Test winning streak that had been unbroken since 2012.

According to sources, Bumrah has flown home for some much-needed rest and will rejoin the squad ahead of the upcoming Australia tour. “He won’t be playing the Mumbai Test, as the team wanted to ensure he recovers fully. He’ll rejoin the squad for Australia,” stated a source close to the team. Abhishek Nayar, India’s batting coach, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the significance of managing Bumrah’s workload. “He’s had adequate rest but is essential to our plans. We’re always mindful of his workload,” Nayar explained.

Bumrah has already bowled a combined 41 overs across the last two Tests against New Zealand, alongside recent appearances in both Bangladesh matches. With India eyeing a spot in the World Test Championship final, having a fully-rested, peak-performing Bumrah will be critical as they face the challenges of the Australia tour.

Image Credits: NDTV Sports

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