Jasprit Bumrah’s selection for West Indies Tests slammed – ‘Seems like a missed alternative’ | Cricket News – The Times of India

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has questioned the choice to incorporate Jasprit Bumrah within the squad for the upcoming residence Test sequence towards West Indies, calling it a missed alternative to check a youthful quick bowler. Bumrah, who bowled in solely three of the 5 Tests on the current England tour, was named within the 15-member squad for the sequence beginning October 2 in Ahmedabad. Pathan mentioned on his YouTube channel that whereas Bumrah’s dedication to Test cricket is admirable, selectors may have used this sequence to have a look at recent tempo choices.

“It seems like a missed opportunity not to play a young fast bowler in these two Tests, but that’s the team’s current direction. If I were a selector or manager, I would have surely tried to give a young fast bowler an opportunity, focusing on their development, not just quick results. Bumrah remains committed to Test cricket, which is fantastic,” Pathan mentioned. He felt Indian circumstances, the place spinners often dominate, had been best to relaxation Bumrah and handle his workload. “Still, it’s good that Bumrah maintains Test cricket as his priority. Selectors could have utilised this series to give proper rest to Bumrah and groom a young fast bowler, something India must prioritise for long-term vision. India needs a group of eight good fast bowlers, not just three or four,” he added. Pathan additionally welcomed the return of Axar Patel, saying his presence strengthens India’s depth. “Axar’s return strengthens the team. When Axar plays alongside Washington and Jadeja, the team gains batting depth. Does this mean Kuldeep Yadav may miss out again? I would definitely want to see him play, but with home conditions generally allowing only two fast bowlers, his spot is not guaranteed,” he mentioned.

With this being India’s first residence Test sequence after Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, Pathan raised the query of who will take up his mantle. “Who will fill that Ashwin role? Washington Sundar brings some qualities, but he does not have all of Ashwin’s traits… Jadeja supported Ashwin well, but now someone new must step up for that role. Could it be Kuldeep Yadav or Washington Sundar, or even Axar Patel? Each offers something different,” he mentioned.