After jolty start to the series, Shubman Gill-led Team India has shifted its focus to the second Test against England which is set to start from July 2 in Birmingham. However, as the team began its net practice at Edgbaston, the primary focus was on Jasprit Bumrah. While the rest of the squad engaged in an intense training session to recover from their loss in Leeds, India's key fast bowler was present but noticeably did not participate in any on-field activities, as reported by the Times of India. This observation has further fueled discussions surrounding the management of his workload.
Prasidh Krishna to miss the second Test against England?
Bumrah was not the only player absent from the nets, though. Prasidh Krishna also did not take part in the net session. While reports suggest that Bumrah is likely to sit out the second Test as part of workload management strategies, Prasidh's absence from training is likely to spark speculation about whether the Indian team is considering changes to their bowling lineup for the match at Edgbaston. Notably, Prasidh conceded runs at a high rate of over 6 runs per over in both innings but also ended up taking 5 wickets.
Bumrah bowled a significant 44 overs in the opening match of the series. Although he remains the most prominent figure in India's somewhat depleted bowling attack, the team management is carefully considering workload balance with a long-term perspective on player fitness. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had previously indicated that Jasprit Bumrah would likely not play more than three Tests in the current series. Following the defeat in Leeds, he reiterated that the availability of the premier pacer would be assessed on a game-by-game basis.
During the net session, pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep drew attention as they engaged in lengthy discussions with Gautam Gambhir. While initial speculation suggested a competition between the two for a single spot, Prasidh Krishna's potential absence could lead to both Akash Deep and Arshdeep featuring in the second Test. If this happens, it would mark a Test debut for Arshdeep Singh. Meanwhile, the rest of the squad utilised their time in the nets effectively. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant faced extended bowling spells during the batting session, while Mohammed Siraj dedicated significant time to practicing his batting skills.
Meanwhile, England have already announced their squad for the second Test against India which saw Jofra Archer coming back to the fold after a long gap. It will be interesting to see whether England included Archer in their playing XI for the second Test against India or not.
England's squad for 2nd Test against India:
Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.