India's World Cup-winning wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has suggested that India should rest Jasprit Bumrah for the third and final Test match against New Zealand. Karthik believes that Mohammed Siraj should replace Bumrah in the playing XI.
The third Test is scheduled to begin on November 1 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. India, currently trailing 0-2 in the series, will be aiming to salvage some pride and avoid a clean sweep. By resting Bumrah, India can manage his workload and ensure his availability for future crucial matches.
Jasprit Bumrah definitely needs a rest without a doubt: Dinesh Karthik
Dinesh Karthik, in a discussion on Cricbuzz, has suggested that Jasprit Bumrah should be rested for the third Test match against New Zealand. Karthik believes that Bumrah has played four consecutive Test matches and needs a break. He further suggested that Mohammed Siraj should be included in the playing XI. Karthik doesn't foresee any other changes to the team composition apart from Bumrah's replacement.
“Jasprit Bumrah definitely needs a rest without a doubt. That is happening, and you will see Mohammed Siraj come in,” Karthik told Cricbuzz.
“I can’t think of any other change unless someone has a niggle. I don’t see any reason why the batters who played this game or the bowlers should not get an opportunity,” he added.
India's impressive 18-match unbeaten Test series streak at home came to an end with a 113-run defeat to New Zealand in Pune. This followed a disappointing eight-wicket loss to the Kiwis in the first Test in Bengaluru.
Bumrah, who was also the vice-captain for the series, has struggled to make a significant impact. He has taken only three wickets in two matches at an economy rate of 3.09. Before the New Zealand series, Bumrah played two Tests against Bangladesh at home.
Karthik expressed his disappointment over India's recent Test series loss to New Zealand. He admitted that the defeat is still bothering him and that it's difficult to think clearly about the team's strategy at the moment.
The disappointment of the defeat is still weighing very heavily on my mind: Karthik
“The loss and the disappointment of the defeat are still weighing very heavily on my mind. I am not able to think very clearly what the XI will be. It’s too short a notice to be honest. But if I had to think straight away, I would say rest Bumrah and bring back Siraj,” Karthik further added.
India will look to sign off the series with a consolation win when they take on New Zealand in the final Test at the iconic Wankhede stadium in Mumbai on November 1.
