Birmingham Practice Raises Questions: Bumrah's Fitness, Seamer Showdown, and Tailenders' Training Grind

The Indian cricket team commenced their training in Birmingham on Friday, engaging in an intensive three-hour session amidst favorable weather conditions. A gentle sun and consistent breeze provided a comfortable environment for the players.

Shubman Gill and his team arrived at approximately 9:15 am local time, with all players present to experience the Birmingham conditions firsthand.

Team India during the net session in Birmingham. (Pic credit: Sahil Malhotra/TimesofIndia.com)

Bumrah and Krishna's Absence

Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna were notably absent from the net area, despite traveling with the team. While they returned with the squad on the team bus, they did not participate in the batting or bowling activities alongside their teammates. It was confirmed that neither Bumrah nor Krishna left the stadium premises during the session.

Siraj's Batting Focus

Mohammed Siraj concentrated solely on his batting skills, dedicating considerable time to this aspect under the guidance of batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. He engaged in various drills focused on leaving, ducking, and playing deliveries, spending nearly 30 minutes before rejoining his fellow seamers.

Workload Management

Notably, Bumrah, Krishna and Siraj all featured in the Headingley Test. Their limited participation in the bowling run-up could be attributed to workload management strategies implemented for the duration of the tour.

Bumrah's Participation in Doubt?

The participation of ace pacer Bumrah in the second Test remains uncertain, making it a key topic of discussion within the Indian camp. The final decision will be made by the bowler in consultation with the medical team, potentially opening opportunities for players waiting in the wings.

Arshdeep and Akash Deep Impress

Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh underwent extensive spells with both bat and ball, closely monitored by the support staff, including head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Arshdeep has been collaborating closely with bowling coach Morne Morkel, refining his run-up, back-foot landing, and overall alignment. Their constant communication and exchange of notes have been a consistent feature from Leeds to Birmingham. Arshdeep also maintains a competitive spirit, frequently challenging his Punjab teammate Gill in the nets.

Gill often seeks out Arshdeep to work on specific aspects of his game, with Arshdeep delivering full-intensity bowling to test the right-hander. This intensity is mirrored by Akash Deep. Should Bumrah be unavailable, either Arshdeep or Akash could be drafted into the Playing XI, as India seeks a new-ball bowler with the ability to control and exploit the red cherry.

Seamers Making a Case

With the Test match still some time away, both seamers are making a strong impression during training, potentially making the selection decision challenging for the Indian team management.