Exciting News: Jasprit Bumrah Likely to Return for India’s Test Series Against New Zealand
In what promises to be a thrilling comeback, Jasprit Bumrah, the talented pace spearhead of the Indian cricket team, is expected to make his return for the upcoming three-Test series against New Zealand starting on October 16. Bumrah has been on a well-deserved break following India’s successful outing in the T20 World Cup, and while he may sit out the two Tests against Bangladesh in September, all eyes are on his participation in the series against New Zealand.
Sources reveal that the Indian team management and selectors are eager to enhance the pace attack by introducing more variety. This includes the consideration of a left-arm seam and swing bowler to complement the current crop of pacers vying for a spot in the Test squad. Among the contenders are Arshdeep Singh, a T20 regular, and Khaleel Ahmed, who, despite his injury concerns and occasional inconsistencies, is highly respected in certain circles.
A BCCI source shared, “India needs a fully fit Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming Test series against Australia. Before that, he is likely to feature in the tests against New Zealand to prepare for the challenging contests ahead.”
The development of Arshdeep’s red-ball skills was a strategic move sanctioned by Rahul Dravid, with the young bowler gaining valuable experience by playing County matches for Kent. On the other hand, Khaleel has shown remarkable progress in his bowling abilities, albeit with occasional bouts of inconsistency. Yash Dayal, another left-arm seamer in contention, currently lags behind Khaleel and Arshdeep in the race for a spot in the team.
In other news, Ajay Ratra is in line to become the new North Zone national selector, replacing Salil Ankola whose term has concluded. Ratra, a former India wicketkeeper with a Test century in the West Indies, is the frontrunner for the fifth spot traditionally designated for a North Zone candidate. His potential appointment follows the dismissal of former chairman Chetan Sharma.
Ratra, currently in Australia with the India A women’s team, is part of the NCA coaching staff and is expected to assume the role upon his return. The appointment process involves interviews with candidates like Ajay Mehra, Shakti Singh, and RS Sodhi conducted by the CAC.
Exciting times lie ahead for Indian cricket as the stage is set for a potential Bumrah return and a new national selector to bring fresh perspective and energy to the team selection process.
