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Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik has advised the Indian team to rest star pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the third and final Test against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on November 1 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. With New Zealand already clinching the three-match series 2-0 following convincing wins in Bengaluru and Pune, Karthik believes Bumrah should be preserved for the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia.
India has been on a grueling Test stretch, starting with two matches against Bangladesh, followed by two against New Zealand, and a challenging tour of Australia up next. Bumrah has been a workhorse for the Indian side, playing consistently across these matches. Given his vital role in Australia, Karthik feels it’s essential to rest him now to avoid burnout and suggested Mohammed Siraj could step in for the final Test.
“Jasprit Bumrah definitely needs a rest, without a doubt,” Karthik stated in an interview with Cricbuzz. “You will see Mohammed Siraj come in. I don’t see any reason why the batters or bowlers from the previous match shouldn’t get an opportunity unless someone has a niggle.”
So far, Bumrah has taken only three wickets in two Tests against New Zealand, averaging 42.33, a relatively subdued performance by his standards. Siraj played the first Test but was replaced by Akash Deep in the second, and Karthik believes bringing Siraj back could be a wise move.
Karthik Reflects on India’s Series Defeat
Karthik admitted that India’s series defeat to New Zealand has been difficult to digest, especially with the high expectations on the home side. “The loss and the disappointment are weighing heavily on my mind,” he added. “If I had to think straight away, I would say rest Bumrah and bring back Siraj.”
Despite New Zealand’s series win, the third Test remains crucial for both teams as valuable World Test Championship (WTC) points are at stake. Although India currently tops the WTC standings, the two losses have affected their percentage points, making this final game vital in maintaining their lead.
