Dinesh Karthik believes that Jasprit Bumrah should be left out of India’s playing XI for the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai, suggesting that Bumrah’s skill set hasn’t been as effective on spin-friendly pitches. India, facing the prospect of a series whitewash after losing the first two Tests, now confronts a must-win situation. Ahead of this crucial Test at Wankhede, Karthik has recommended that captain Rohit Sharma and the team management consider giving Bumrah a rest, particularly with the upcoming Australia series in mind. This approach aligns with a long-term view of managing Bumrah’s workload, ensuring his fitness for other key series, and optimizing team strategies under conditions more favorable for spinners.
Karthik noted that while there may not be drastic changes to India’s batting lineup, despite their recent struggles, Mohammed Siraj could potentially replace Bumrah for this Test. Recognizing the toll of back-to-back defeats, Karthik suggested it might be time to bring in fresh energy and targeted adjustments in the bowling department. “The disappointment of the losses is still fresh,” he commented, acknowledging the difficulty of making lineup changes on short notice. “If I were to decide right now, I’d rest Bumrah and bring in Siraj,” he told Cricbuzz, emphasizing that a break could be beneficial for Bumrah’s longevity.
Although India’s batting performances have been subpar throughout the series, Karthik doesn’t foresee major shifts within the batting order for the third Test unless an injury necessitates it. He asserted that the existing lineup should be given another opportunity to prove themselves, as sudden alterations are less likely to yield positive outcomes, especially given the continuity needed ahead of the World Test Championship.
Bumrah’s style, while exceptionally effective on fast and bouncy surfaces, hasn’t quite matched expectations on spin-heavy Indian pitches in the series. Karthik anticipates Siraj’s inclusion could add a fresh dynamic to the bowling attack, potentially offering an alternative that complements India’s spin-dominant strategy in conditions favoring turn.
India’s spinning all-rounder Washington Sundar delivered an impressive performance with the ball in the previous Test in Pune, yet India still couldn’t secure the win. Sundar’s efforts highlighted the effectiveness of spin against New Zealand but were ultimately insufficient to prevent India from going 0-2 down in the series. Karthik emphasized that keeping the World Test Championship standings in mind, this Test represents a crucial chance for India to make strategic adjustments.
In short, Karthik has urged a thoughtful approach for the third Test, resting Bumrah and integrating Siraj, while keeping the batting lineup stable. This plan aims to set up India for both a potential comeback in the series and sustained success in future tournaments.
