Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has questioned the decision to include Jasprit Bumrah in the squad for the upcoming home Test series against West Indies, calling it a missed opportunity to test a younger fast bowler. Bumrah, who bowled in only three of the five Tests on the recent England tour, was named in the 15-member squad for the series starting October 2 in Ahmedabad. Pathan said on his YouTube channel that while Bumrah’s commitment to Test cricket is admirable, selectors could have used this series to look at fresh pace options.
“It seems like a missed opportunity not to play a young fast bowler in these two Tests, but that’s the team’s current direction. If I were a selector or manager, I would have surely tried to give a young fast bowler an opportunity, focusing on their development, not just quick results. Bumrah remains committed to Test cricket, which is fantastic,” Pathan said. He felt Indian conditions, where spinners usually dominate, were ideal to rest Bumrah and manage his workload. “Still, it’s good that Bumrah maintains Test cricket as his priority. Selectors could have utilised this series to give proper rest to Bumrah and groom a young fast bowler, something India must prioritise for long-term vision. India needs a group of eight good fast bowlers, not just three or four,” he added. Pathan also welcomed the return of Axar Patel, saying his presence strengthens India’s depth. “Axar’s return strengthens the team. When Axar plays alongside Washington and Jadeja, the team gains batting depth. Does this mean Kuldeep Yadav may miss out again? I would definitely want to see him play, but with home conditions generally allowing only two fast bowlers, his spot is not guaranteed,” he said.
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With this being India’s first home Test series after Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, Pathan raised the question of who will take up his mantle. “Who will fill that Ashwin role? Washington Sundar brings some qualities, but he does not have all of Ashwin’s traits… Jadeja supported Ashwin well, but now someone new must step up for that role. Could it be Kuldeep Yadav or Washington Sundar, or even Axar Patel? Each offers something different,” he said.
