IND vs ENG 2025: Former India Star Questions Jasprit Bumrah Call, Backs Kuldeep Yadav for Final Test
Irfan Pathan urges India to play Bumrah in fifth Test and suggests Kuldeep Yadav could be a smart pick at The Oval
With the final Test between India and England set to begin on July 31 at The Oval, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Jasprit Bumrah should be in the playing XI despite injury workload plans.
Bumrah was expected to play only three of the five Tests in the series to manage his body. But with England leading 2-1 and the series on the line, Pathan feels it’s time to rethink that plan.
“If You’re Selected, You Should Be Ready”
“Given that it’s the fifth Test and the bowlers from both teams will be fatigued with little rest, India must strategise carefully,” Pathan said. “The tiredness is inevitable. This is also why Bumrah isn’t playing, whether due to injury management or other reasons. However, I don’t agree with that decision. I still believe that if you’re selected, you should be ready to play in every match.”
Mohammed Siraj has bowled long spells this series and looks visibly tired. With Bumrah under workload monitoring, India’s pace resources are stretched.
Kuldeep Yadav in the Mix?
Pathan also floated the idea of including spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He admitted it wouldn’t be an easy call but said India needs someone who can take wickets, especially with bowlers feeling the strain after four long Tests.
“The real question is whether they can find a way to include Kuldeep Yadav. It’s a tough decision. Our bowlers are exhausted. Siraj is tired, and Bumrah has his injury management issue,” Pathan said.
“What India needs is a wicket-taking bowler. I’m not claiming Kuldeep will definitely take wickets, as there’s no certainty. However, since the match is at The Oval, where spinners can get some bounce, could they consider playing him?”
Kuldeep has an impressive Test record, with 56 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 22.16. Against England, he has taken 21 wickets in just six Tests.
