'You would definitely want the world's best bowler to play...': Ex-India wicketkeeper explains why Jasprit Bumrah should feature in 4th Test against England

Former India wicketkeeper batter believes that the pace spearhead should play the fourth Test against England, which will take place from 23-27 July at Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Bumrah has been one of India's best bowlers so far in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, despite featuring only two out of three Tests. The legendary pacer picked up a five-wicket haul in both matches and got 12 scalps in 4 innings at an average of 21.

Before the beginning of the series, India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Bumrah will play only three Tests because of workload management. The speedster is making his comeback in the series after recovering from a back injury that he got in Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2025. Ahead of the England Tests, Gautam Gambhir said that Bumrah would only play three out of the five Tests and reiterated that stance after the loss at Headingley.

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After losing the third Test, Dasgupta feels that Bumrah's inclusion in the upcoming clash has to be a necessity. Speaking to Star Sports, the former India wicketkeeper said that he heard rumours that Bumrah would only play the first, third and fifth Tests. However, Dasgupta feels that with India 1-2 behind in the series, he feels the Manchester Test now becomes crucial.

"Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth Test, absolutely yes. I've heard rumors that the plan for him was to play in the first, third and fifth Tests. But now, when India are 1-2 behind, the fourth Test becomes very, very crucial. You would definitely want the world's best bowler to play.

The third Test match ended on July 14, and the next clash is scheduled to take place from July 23. The former wicketkeeper feels that the gap is enough for Bumrah to rest and be ready for the next match.

There is an eight-day gap between the two Tests. It remains to be seen whether the fifth Test is still relevant after the fourth Test, but the relevance of the fourth Test is considerable," said Dasgupta.

After defeating India in the third Test, England are currently leading 2-1 in the five-Test match series.