India’s Jasprit Bumrah misses the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai due to a viral illness. This decision comes as a surprise amid India’s struggle to secure a win against New Zealand in the final Test on home soil.
Why Jasprit Bumrah Is Not Playing
India’s vice-captain and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the third and final Test against New Zealand in Mumbai due to an ongoing viral illness, as confirmed by the BCCI,“Mr Jasprit Bumrah has not fully recovered from his viral illness. He was unavailable for selection for the third Test in Mumbai.”
This update follows earlier speculation after Bumrah limited his practice to light fitness and fielding drills at Wankhede Stadium, raising concerns about his availability.
Earlier in the week, head coach Gautam Gambhir reassured fans, stating Bumrah was fit and adjusting his preparation to handle Mumbai’s hot weather. However, the pacer ultimately couldn’t recover in time to make it into the lineup for the series-deciding Test.
Bumrah’s absence is a setback for India, especially given his solid performance this season. In four home Tests, he has bowled the third-most overs (90) and claimed 14 wickets, ranking him as one of the top bowlers in the squad.
Initially, there were reports suggesting that the newly appointed vice-captain might be rested to manage his workload, keeping him fresh for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This series will demand even more from Bumrah, especially in Rohit Sharma’s expected absence for the first match in Perth.
India’s Focus on a Strong Comeback
With Shubman Gill back in the lineup and Sarfaraz Khan retaining his spot after a solid performance, India’s batting and bowling lineup now has a refreshed structure. India is aiming to secure a win in the final Test against New Zealand, aiming to avoid a series whitewash after New Zealand ended India’s 12-year home dominance in Test matches.
The stakes are high, as India’s chances of reaching the World Test Championship Final hinge on winning this match. Rohit Sharma’s team is prepared for an all-out effort, fully aware that they must improve both their batting and bowling performances to keep their championship dreams alive.
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