Former English cricketer Ian Bell has stated that he would be shocked if Jasprit Bumrah plays only three Tests in the five-match series between England and India. The decision was made by head coach Gautam Gambhir following the conclusion of the series opener. Bell believed that “the best fast bowler in the world” should be included in the XI, providing he is healthy.

“I would be surprised if he just played three Tests this summer. He’s the world’s top fast bowler, and if he doesn’t play, England will be overjoyed. Of course, you want to protect him, but if the series is on the line and he’s fit, he must play’, Bell told India Today.

The former top-order batsman urged for the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav to supplement Ravindra Jadeja’s spin bowling.

“Kuldeep bowls wonderfully. Someone who can play both sides is always a threat, particularly to England’s bottom tier. “India will have to decide whether they want someone like Washington Sundar to assist Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav, who is a much better wicket-taker,” Bell added.

The second Test in the series between the hosts and India began on Wednesday, July 2, at Edgbaston, with Bumrah rested. India captain Shubman Gill confirmed the decision, stating that the pacer was held out to control his effort and make him available for the third Test at Lord’s.

“No, Jasprit Bumrah.” Only to handle his workload.

We had a fantastic break, and this is a big match for us. But with the third Test at Lord’s, we believe there will be more on that pitch, so we’ll play him there,” Gill said after losing the toss at Edgbaston.

The Shubman Gill-led side lost the first match by five wickets at Headingley, when England successfully chased down 371 in the fourth innings. A fantastic 149 from Ben Duckett was one of the key reasons they were able to reach the total so easily. The left-handed batsman was named Player of the Match after scoring 62 runs in the first innings.