Indian team sticks to Bumrah's plan despite Headingley Test defeat, confirms Gambhir

The loss in the series opener against England in Headingley will have no impact on the workload management of premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, confirmed head coach Gautam Gambhir, while defending his bowling unit after England rode a superb century from opener Ben Duckett to chase down a daunting 371 on the final day and take a 1-0 lead in the rubber.

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

Originally slated to play only three of the five Tests in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship series as part of a carefully managed plan to protect his fitness, particularly considering his previous back issues, the 31-year-old Bumrah had become the centre of speculation amid increasing calls from pundits to feature in all five matches.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri felt India might need to rethink their plan of resting Bumrah if the visitors go down 0-2 after the Edgbaston Test, starting July 2. "If he was looking at a rest, you may have to think twice. If you don't have him and then go 2-0 down it could be an uphill task," said Shastri. However, Gambhir's confirmation has now put those rumours to rest.