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- By Gurmeet Batra
- Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:00 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
India vs England 2nd Test: Former England batter Ian Bell has strongly advised India to include ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah in India's playing XI for the second Test against England if he's fit.
Bell also added that India should not limit Bumrah to just three Tests to manage his workload, given the high profile of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar series.
There is a question mark over Bumrah's availability for the second Test beginning in Birmingham on Wednesday and India skipper Shubman Gill kept the cards close to his chest about the decision on his lead pacer, stating that the selection will be taken only after taking a look at the pitch.
Providing a little clarity over the pace ace's inclusion, Gill said that Bumrah is available for selection.
"I'd be amazed if he (Bumrah) only plays three Tests this summer. He's the best fast bowler in the world, and if he doesn't play, England will be very, very happy," Bell, who has more than 7,700 runs under his belt in 118 Tests, told PTI Videos.
"Of course, you want to protect him (Bumrah), but if the series is on the line and he's fit, he has to play," said the former right-handed batter.
The 43-year-old feels spin could play a role as the match progresses. The spinners will eventually come into the game and India will need to decide whether they want someone like Washington Sundar who can assist Ravindra Jadeja, or get Kuldeep Yadav, who is a much better wicket-taking option.
"It (wicket) won't turn early, but by day four or five, it could take spin," Bell said.
Former England batter believes this makes a strong case for Kuldeep's inclusion.
"Kuldeep is bowling beautifully. Someone who can spin it both ways is always a threat - especially to England's lower order," Bell added.
Bell added that India should consider the wrist-spinner as an "attacking option to fight fire with fire."
