ENG vs IND 2025: 'He knows his workload' - Suresh Raina on Jasprit Bumrah's availability for Manchester Test

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has stated that the final decision regarding Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, will rest with the team doctor. India find themselves in a challenging position, trailing 1-2 in the ongoing five-match Test series.

Ahead of the series, the Indian team management had announced that Bumrah would feature in only three of the five Tests to manage his workload. So far, Bumrah has played in the first and third Tests. With two matches remaining and India suffering a defeat at Lord’s in the third Test, Bumrah’s availability for the crucial fourth Test is now uncertain.

“I think it is a doctor’s call to be honest. I know my body. I know my doctor. I know what guidelines he is giving me, how to play the game. So I think with Bumrah, I think he is a legend. I think he knows his workload, how to manage himself, and look at his performance at Lord’s, he registered his place in the Lord’s Honours Board,” Raina said.

Raina, however, emphasised the importance of Bumrah’s presence in the playing XI, stating that both Bumrah and Rishabh Pant need to be on the field if India are to mount a strong comeback in the series.

Pant, too, is dealing with injury concerns. He sustained a finger injury while keeping wickets during the Lord’s Test and had to leave the field. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel stepped in to take over the wicketkeeping duties. Despite the injury, Pant came out to bat in both innings.

“Rishabh Pant had an injury on his finger too. So it is very important for both of them (to play their fourth Test. If they have to draw the series or if they have to try to win the game, then I think it will be very important for both of them to feature in the fourth Test,” Raina said.

Several players are battling niggles, complicating the team selection for India. Recently, Anshul Kamboj was added to the Indian squad as a replacement for Arshdeep Singh, who was ruled out. Additionally, Akash Deep is struggling with a groin injury and remains doubtful for the upcoming match. The fourth Test, beginning July 23, presents a critical opportunity for India to level the series.