India have made an important change for the second Test match against England. Fast bowler Akash Deep has replaced Jasprit Bumrah in the playing eleven. The match is taking place at Edgbaston and is part of the ongoing five-match Test series.
Before the series began, reports had mentioned that Bumrah might not play all five Tests. At the toss, team captain Shubman Gill confirmed that Akash Deep was chosen in place of the senior pacer.
Gill said the change was made to manage Bumrah’s workload. “We had a good break, but the third Test is at Lord’s, where conditions may help bowlers more. So we decided to play Bumrah there,” he explained.
This gives Akash Deep a great chance to prove himself. He has done well in domestic cricket and the IPL, and now gets to show his talent on the biggest stage. His selection also shows that the team wants to keep players fresh and avoid injuries.
India has made two more changes. Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy have come in for Shardul Thakur and Sai Sudharsan. These moves add more options in both batting and bowling.
This second Test is very important for both teams. India will try to keep their lead, while England will hope to make a comeback. With the series still open, the focus is now on the new players and how they perform.
Fans will be watching closely to see how Akash Deep handles the pressure. A good performance here could help him keep his place in the squad for future games.
The third Test at Lord’s is expected to support fast bowlers, so resting Bumrah now may help him be at his best for that game.
As the series continues, team rotation and player fitness will be key to success.
For more on India’s decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah, read how the move sparked strong reactions from cricket experts.
