ENG vs IND 2025: Shubman Gill confirms Jasprit Bumrah's return for Lord's Test

Indian skipper Shubman Gill has confirmed that premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah will return to the playing XI for the third Test against England at Lord’s, starting July 10. Bumrah, who missed the second Test in Birmingham as part of workload management, is expected to boost India’s pace attack as the five-match series stands level at 1-1.

The 31-year-old, currently the No. 1 ranked Test bowler, sat out India’s commanding 336-run win at Edgbaston. However, his return will likely see seamer Prasidh Krishna make way.

In Bumrah’s absence, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj led India’s bowling attack with great success. Deep, in particular, impressed with a 10-wicket haul across both innings. Gill lauded the duo’s efforts, highlighting their discipline and impact in levelling the series.

"Definitely (when asked about Bumrah's availability). Very excited for that (playing at Lord's). Probably the most iconic cricket stadium in the world. And as a kid, everyone dreams about playing there. And I think no bigger honour than to be able to captain your country and lead the team there," Gill after India's gigantic win at Edgbaston.

"When two of your fast bowlers take 16-17 wickets, the captaincy becomes very easy. When two fast bowlers are in such good form... Bumrah was not playing in this match, but I think there is so much talent in India that the squad we have of 16-17 players, they have India's best bowlers. And from them, any bowling attack can take 20 wickets in any situation or conditions," he added.

The right-handed batter was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knocks of 269 and 161 at Edgbaston, anchoring India’s innings in both efforts. Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also played a crucial role in the dominant win, contributing with both bat and ball to help India seal a comprehensive 336-run victory. Gill acknowledged the importance of leading by example in his new role as captain.

"Sometimes, especially when you are the captain, I think you need to lead by example so that whenever there is another player in that situation, you can command that player. 'This is what the team requires right now and you always have to put the team first rather than your personal desires.' Or sometimes you want to try some things, but I think if you put the team ahead of you, you will always walk in the right direction or walk on the right path and that's what I wanted to do in this match. If a good ball gets me out, it gets me out, but as long as I'm there, I want to play as long as possible,” Gill said.

"I'd say I'm feeling comfortable (with my form as a batter). "I'm definitely feeling comfortable with my game and hopefully with my contribution, if we are able to win this series, that would be a great achievement for us," he added.

The 25-year-old believes there is no reason why this Indian team can't build on the momentum from their emphatic win in Birmingham and go on to win the series.

"I believe this is the best Indian team to ever come here to England and we have the capability to beat them and win the series from here. We have got the right momentum with us and if we keep making the right decisions and if we keep trying and keep fighting it will be a series to remember,” Gill concluded.