As India prepares for the decisive fifth and final Test of the Anderson‑Tendulkar Trophy, beginning July 31, 2025, at London’s Oval, cricket fans are bracing for major changes in the Indian bowling unit. Chief among them: the significant possibility that Jasprit Bumrah will not feature, and that Akash Deep will likely replace him.
The board’s approach to managing Bumrah’s workload, his ongoing fitness, and India’s impressive backup options have made this a focal talking point ahead of the culmination match.
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1. Pre-tour workload plan and Bumrah’s fitness
Long before the series began, Team India had stated that Bumrah, recovering from a prior back injury and part of a hectic international schedule, would play only three of the five Tests in England as part of a workload management strategy.
He played the first Test at Leeds and the third at Lord’s. He was absent from the second and the fourth in Manchester.
While reports originally suggested the third might be his final appearance, the Indian coaching staff has acknowledged that his participation in the fifth Test could still go either way, depending on fitness and performance assessments.
As of July 29–30, head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak both confirmed that Bumrah remains fit and that all fast bowlers are available for selection, but emphasized that no decision has yet been made on whether he will be a part of the team in the Oval Test.
2. What the coaches and captain have said
Captain Shubman Gill said that if Bumrah feels “fully fit”, including in terms of workload, it would be a “great deal” for India to have him for the series decider.
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, meanwhile, reiterated that the final choice hinges on broader strategic plans and health monitoring, with no last‑minute surprises ruled out.
3. Akash Deep: fitting in at Edgbaston and stepping up
In Bumrah’s absence during the second Test at Edgbaston, Akash Deep gained immense popularity. He took 6 wickets in the second innings, with a match figure of 10 for 187. He helped Team India to equal the score (1-1), after its emphatic 336‑run victory.
Akash’s spells included early strikes, dismissing the likes of Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks, adding to his reputation as a serious fast‑bowling prospect.
Though he picked up a minor groin niggle during the fourth Test at Lord’s, team management reportedly remains hopeful of his swift recovery and availability for selection in the Oval Test. Betting now leans toward India turning to him as the most natural replacement if Bumrah is indeed rested.
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4. Strategic considerations and team balance
India’s bowling resources have come under strain, with injuries to Arshdeep Singh and Rishabh Pant being ruled out of the fifth Test due to a fractured foot, prompting more adjustments.
Selecting Bumrah would add experience and lethal bowling ability, but on a convincing workload trajectory and parked in three-Test only strategy. On the other hand, including Akash Deep allows India to back emerging talent while safeguarding Bumrah’s fitness for future international fixtures.
5. Likely playing XI and final call timeline
Reports claimed that Jasprit Bumrah’s status is expected to be confirmed within 24 hours of the match start at The Oval, with Akash Deep “likely to return” if Bumrah is ruled out.
India is also considering Kuldeep Yadav in the mix for spin support, especially since the pitch at The Oval traditionally favours some turn. With Narayan Jagadeesan debuting behind the stumps in place of injured Pant, the final XI will reflect both form and fitness contingencies.
6. Impact on the series decider
The Oval Test is crucial for both teams. England needs one more draw to maintain its dominance (as it is leading with 2-1), and India will also try to win the match to level the series. Bumrah is the core strength of the Indian bowling unit as he has taken 14 wickets in the series, with an average rate of 26.00.
However, Akash Deep’s performances in Bumrah’s absence suggest that India still possesses firepower.
Conclusion
With a chance for Akash Deep to step in and take the responsibility, India is hoping to compensate for its bowling strength after losing a world-class pacer. Though Bumrah’s absence is not yet confirmed, India is prepared with budding talents like Akash Deep to maintain the flow of the game.
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