Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, is expected to return for the three-Test series against New Zealand starting on October 16. However, he may be rested for the two Tests against Bangladesh in September. The Indian team management and selectors are considering adding a left-arm seam and swing bowler to the pace attack for greater variation.
Arshdeep Singh, a regular in the T20 format, and Khaleel Ahmed, who is highly rated but injury-prone, are the two main contenders for the left-arm seamer role. Arshdeep has experience playing County cricket for Kent, while Khaleel has shown improvement but can be erratic.
In terms of Bumrah’s availability, the decision will ultimately depend on his fitness. The team management is keen to have him fully fit for the five-Test series against Australia Down Under.
Meanwhile, Ajay Ratra is the frontrunner to become the North Zone national selector. Salil Ankola’s term has ended, and Ratra, a former India wicketkeeper, is expected to fill the vacant slot.
