India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he intends to play only three Tests during the upcoming five-match series against England, set to commence on June 20, 2025. This decision comes as Bumrah continues to recover from a lower back injury sustained during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January. The injury led to his absence from the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and the early stages of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 .
Bumrah’s cautious approach is influenced by medical advice and his previous back surgery in March 2023. Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond, who has worked with Bumrah, expressed concerns about the risks of overexertion, suggesting that playing more than two consecutive Tests could jeopardize Bumrah’s long-term career .
With Rohit Sharma stepping away from Test cricket and Virat Kohli’s retirement, India is in search of a new Test captain. Shubman Gill, who has captained Gujarat Titans in the IPL, is emerging as a frontrunner. However, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Bumrah for the role, citing his leadership experience and the need for continuity during this transitional period .
As India prepares for the England tour, Bumrah’s participation in the series is a subject of strategic planning, balancing his fitness with the team’s leadership needs.
