Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the ongoing series has been strategically managed due to workload concerns. He featured in the opening Test in Leeds, where he impressed with a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Following this, he was rested for the second Test at Edgbaston as part of a pre-planned workload management strategy, which reportedly aimed for him to play only three out of the five Tests.

Returning for the third Test at Lord’s, Bumrah once again showcased his class with another five-wicket haul in the first innings. His impactful performances have made him the second-highest wicket-taker in the series, with 12 wickets in four innings at an average of 28.09.

India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has indicated a strong inclination towards playing Bumrah in the upcoming Manchester Test. While initially, the plan was for Bumrah to play only three Tests in the series, the current series scoreline (India trailing 1-2) has prompted a reconsideration.

Ten Doeschate stated that the team will “make that call in Manchester,” but conceded that “there will be a leaning towards playing him” given the series is on the line. He also mentioned that the team is considering various factors, including the potential number of playing days at Old Trafford and how Bumrah’s inclusion fits into the broader strategy for both the Manchester and the subsequent Oval Tests.

The debate around Bumrah’s workload management has been ongoing. Before the series, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had clarified that Bumrah would only play three Test matches. However, after India’s 22-run defeat at Lord’s, several experts, including former India players like Deep Dasgupta, Irfan Pathan, and Anil Kumble, have advocated for Bumrah’s inclusion in the crucial fourth Test to keep India’s hopes alive in the series.

The decision to play Bumrah will involve balancing the immediate need for a series-levelling victory with the long-term management of a bowler with a unique action prone to back injuries. While India proved they can win without him (as seen in the Edgbaston Test), his presence significantly bolsters their bowling attack.

The final call on Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the 4th Test at Old Trafford, commencing July 23, will be made in Manchester. However, with the series on the line, all indications point towards India taking the strategic decision to include their ace pacer, prioritizing the immediate objective of levelling the series against England.