India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has revealed that the team might consider resting key pacer Jasprit Bumrah after the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, depending on the result. Bumrah, who has already played three consecutive home Tests, remains crucial to India’s pace attack, particularly with Mohammed Shami recovering from injury.
When asked about Bumrah’s workload ahead of a five-Test series in Australia, Gambhir said, “We still have around 10 or 12 days before the Australia tour starts after this series, which should be enough rest for our fast bowlers. But we will monitor Bumrah’s workload after this Test match.”
Gambhir also emphasized the importance of managing the entire pace unit, stating, “It’s not just about Bumrah. We want to keep all our fast bowlers fresh for the long and important tour of Australia.”
Heading into the second Test in Pune, both Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant have been declared fit, with Pant set to take the gloves. Gambhir confirmed that Gill, who missed the first Test due to injury, will return to the playing XI.
As for the pitch in Pune, Gambhir acknowledged that conditions are expected to favor spinners on the dry surface. However, he remained cautious about making any predictions, adding, “No one can predict exactly how the wicket will behave until both teams have batted on it.”
India, having lost the first Test in Bengaluru, will be aiming to bounce back and level the series in Pune.