ENG vs IND 2025: Gautam Gambhir will have to change his plans regarding Jasprit Bumrah's participation - David Lloyd

Ahead of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India's head coach Gautam Gambhir mentioned that Jasprit Bumrah will be available to play only three out of the five Tests. The talismanic seamer has already featured in two out of the first three Test matches. So, he should be playing either the fourth Test in Manchester of the fifth one in London.

However, former England cricketer David Lloyd feels that Gambhir might have to change his plans regarding Bumrah's participation heading into the last two Test matches as India are trailing 1-2.

“It is what they've said and what the coach Gautam Gambhir said that he will play three out of the five Tests. So, he's got a choice. There are two matches to go. He's played two. If they are true to their words, he should play this next game at Old Trafford. But then, you know, they can manoeuvre that, can't they? If he plays this next one at Old Trafford and they get a result to make it 2-2, you'd think he'd play at The Oval as well. I'm second-guessing, but I think he'll play this next game and see where they are. If England go 3-1, he won't play. But if it's 2-2, he will play at the Oval,” said Lloyd on TalkSport Cricket.

Bumrah bagged five-fors in the first Test at Headingley and the third Test at Lord's. However, India lost both the matches. The Asian giants won the second Test at Edgbaston where Akash Deep starred with 10 wickets, replacing Bumrah, who was rested. Lloyd shared his views on India losing matches even with Bumrah in the playing XI.

“That's extraordinary. There was something that said when he plays they lose more than when he doesn't play, and he is like the best bowler in the world. And he is awkward and nasty with his action, but a thoroughly decent fella,” he added.

The highly-anticipated fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester gets underway on Wednesday, July 23. Bumrah will get eight days of rest before that encounter. His presence will be critical for the Shubman Gill-led side as they look to restore parity in the series.