'Jasprit Bumrah is India’s problem': Ben Stokes shuts down hype before IND vs ENG 2nd Test

Ben Stokes shuts down Jasprit Bumrah hype before second Test (AP Photo)

England captain Ben Stokes put an end to all the chatter around Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which is scheduled to start in Birmingham from July 2. Stokes told reporters on the eve of the Test that Bumrah's workload management and his availability for just a portion of the five-match series are not at all concerning to the England think tank.

When asked if Bumrah's decision to rest for the second Test could benefit England, Stokes responded: "(Bumrah is) India's problem to deal with. I am the captain of England. Let India decide what they want to do and what they want to say publicly."

India announced before to the commencement of the five-match Test series that Bumrah would only be available for three Tests keeping his workload in mind. Bumrah, who has lately emerged as India's crisis man, bowled 44 overs in the first Test and registered a five-wicket haul in the first innings. However, he failed to strike a single blow in the second essay.

Meanwhile, Gambhir said the management won't change their stance on Bumrah and burden him with the extra load of playing an additional Test apart from three despite losing the series opener in Headingley. "No, we won't change the plans. For us to manage his workload is more important because there's a lot of cricket going forward, and we know what he brings to the table as well. Before he came on the show, it was already decided that he was going to play three Test matches," said Gambhir in Leeds.

He, however, didn't disclose the matches Bumrah is planned to be a part of. "But let's see how his body turns out. We haven't decided which two other Test matches he's going to play. (Even without Bumrah) We absolutely have the bowling attack (to compete). We believe in them. We trust in them."

As per reports, Bumrah is not expected to play in the second Test. Bumrah's absence from Birmingham could leave the Indian pace attack exposed as at Headingley, he was the only Indian bowler to put the England batsmen to the test.

Although Arshdeep Singh's left-arm angle cannot be totally ruled out, Akash Deep is the most likely contender to join the Indian XI in Bumrah's absence. Prior to the second Test, Arshdeep and Akash Deep have been putting in a lot of effort in the nets.

In contrast, England's starting lineup for the Birmingham Test has not changed. Jofra Archer, who was brought into the team following an injury layoff, was left out of the starting lineup. Notably, a family emergency prevented Archer from training with the other England players on Monday.

“Archer is back with us after a long time, it’s important for him to be with the group this week. He is important for this series. I know Archer better than you (Reporters). He wants to return to Tests and play for England, that’s what I know,” Stokes added.