Jasprit Bumrah’s absence is a concern, but an adaptable Team India will have an advantage over England’s somewhat depthless ‘Bazball’ approach when the two teams face off in the potentially series-deciding fourth Test on Friday. The temperature difference between Rajkot’s dry heat and Ranchi’s considerably cooler confines would be the only solace for the Englishmen, who have let it go against the tough hosts and are down 1-2.
Jasprit Bumrah, who has claimed 17 wickets at an impressive average of 13.65, has been rested for the fourth Test and his absence leaves a significant void that will be difficult to fill. Considering the characteristics of the pitch in Ranchi, India may be inclined to include an additional spinner in their lineup. However, history suggests that the JSCA Stadium pitch will suit a two-seamer, three-spinner attack.
Do India include Axar Patel, whose batting has been essential in the lower order, to replace Bumrah, or will they give Mukesh Kumar another chance after he was expensive in Vizag? Or would Akash Deep, who took 11 wickets in two previous meetings against the England Lions, get his debut?
AKASHDEEP TO MAKE DEBUT?
However, if they opt for a pacer, Mukesh Kumar’s modest performance in Vishakapatnam might prompt the team management to hand the debut to Bengal’s promising fast-bowler, Akash Deep. At 27 years old, Akash Deep is poised to step into Bumrah’s shoes, bringing with him a record of 10 wickets in games against the England Lions. His inclusion is seen as a strategic move to bolster the pace department, offering a fresh dimension to India’s attack against a formidable English lineup.
India predicted XI: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Md Siraj and Akash Deep.
ENGLAND MAKE TWO CHANGES
England have announced its playing XI with notable inclusions such as pace bowler Ollie Robinson and off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, aiming to bounce back from their defeat at Rajkot. The English side, led by Ben Stokes, retains experienced players like Jonny Bairstow and James Anderson, signalling their intent to level the series in Ranchi.
England playing XI: Ben Stokes (captain), Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes (wicketkeeper), Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, James Anderson, Shoaib Bashir.
