3 Players who can replace Jasprit Bumrah in India’s Test team

3 Players who can replace Jasprit Bumrah in India’s Test team. (Photo Source: Twitter/X)

India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah may soon hang his boots from Test cricket, according to former India batter Mohammad Kaif. As India is taking on England in the fourth Test in Manchester, Kaif pointed to Bumrah’s fitness struggles, especially a dip in his pace, from regularly bowling at 140 kmph to hovering around 130–135 kmph.

Kaif believes Bumrah’s body is no longer able to support the intensity of red-ball cricket. The 31-year-old speedster, who has taken only one wicket in Manchester so far and conceded more than 100 runs for the first time in this format, was seen holding his ankle.

Bumrah had been scheduled to play just three Tests this series to manage his workload. However, Kaif mentioned that Bumrah’s retirement from the format might not be far off. Bumrah has played 48 Test matches so far and has been a dependable bowler, and his exit from this format will leave a huge void within the bowling arsenal.

3 players who can replace Jasprit Bumrah in Test cricket

3. Akash Madhwal:

With Jasprit Bumrah reportedly set to retire from Test cricket, Uttarakhand pacer Akash Madhwal could come out to be India’s next red-ball pace option. The 31-year-old has already shown moments of brilliance in the IPL, most notably his sensational 5/5 in the 2023 Eliminator for Mumbai Indians, matching Anil Kumble’s best IPL figures for an Indian. Madhwal started competitive cricket at the age of 24 after quitting engineering, and impressed domestic coaches like Wasim Jaffer and Manish Jha.

His IPL performances and ability to bowl with the new and old ball, he could be an asset on the Test side. In 14 First-Class games, he has bagged 16 wickets at an economy of 3.49. Meanwhile, in 17 IPL games, he has managed to pick 23 wickets. While Madhwal’s age could be a point of concern, his ability could do wonders for the team.

2. Vyshak Vijay Kumar:

Karnataka’s Vijayakumar Vyshak could be another promising option in red-ball cricket. The right-arm medium pacer, who is known for his variations and slower deliveries, has had an impressive domestic season so far. In 26 first-class matches, he has taken over 100 wickets at an average of 23.88, including three five-wicket hauls.

After making his debut for Karnataka, Vyshak grabbed attention in IPL 2023 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, picking up nine wickets. Although he got limited opportunities in 2024, he earned an INR 1.80 crore deal with Punjab Kings during the IPL 2025 mega auction. In the IPL, he has claimed 17 wickets across 16 matches. Notably, in India’s tour of South Africa in 2024-25, he earned his maiden international call-up, but is yet to make his India debut. If given a chance in the longest format of the game, he could make a big difference.

1. Arshdeep Singh:

While left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh has become a main member in India’s white-ball setup, his red-ball stint is yet to begin. The seamer earned his maiden Test call-up for the ongoing India-England series. However, just ahead of a potential debut in the fourth Test at Manchester, Arshdeep was ruled out due to an unfortunate thumb injury sustained during a training session.

Arshdeep’s inclusion came after consistent white-ball performances and a solid first-class record, with 66 wickets in 21 matches at an average of 30.37. His county stint with Kent in 2023 also honed his red-ball skills in English conditions. Despite being a T20 star for Punjab Kings, picking 97 wickets in 82 games, he is yet to show his brilliance in this format. With Bumrah reportedly set to step away, Arshdeep could be a reliable bowler, the team management could bank upon.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.