Did the selectors miss an opportunity to rest Jasprit Bumrah?
Sports | Cricket
Ashish Kapoor 26 SEP 2025 | 07:14:49
Team India has announced its squad for the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies - and there’s a fresh breeze blowing through the lineup. Ravindra Jadeja has been handed the leadership role in Tests, stepping in as vice-captain. It’s a decision that seemed inevitable after Jadeja’s subtle but clear aspirations surfaced in recent interviews.
Jagadeesan, Padikkal & the Changing Guard
The selectors have clearly decided to hit refresh. Narayan Jagadeesan’s inclusion might raise eyebrows, but it’s a smart call. Not only can he keep wickets, but he’s also been one of the most consistent run-scorers in domestic cricket. With Ishan Kishan out and Rishabh Pant still recovering, this could be Jagadeesan’s breakout moment.
Meanwhile, Devdutt Padikkal’s return shows that the selectors still see long-term value in him, even if the performances haven’t matched the hype yet. Backed by Rahul Dravid, Padikkal has a golden opportunity to translate potential into results.
The biggest surprise? No place for Abhimanyu Easwaran or Sarfaraz Khan, both victims of timing, fitness, or perhaps the brutal realities of Indian cricket’s overflowing talent pool.
Bumrah's Inclusion: A Silent Gamble No One’s Talking About
Now to the most quietly risky move - Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion.
While others debate spin combinations, the real story is how India plans to use Bumrah. He missed the England Tests due to workload management and has only recently returned to full throttle. Yet here he is - in the squad for both Tests.
But is he really going to play both?
Bumrah’s presence feels like insurance. Ahmedabad is his home turf, and the management might be tempted to unleash him there - but playing him in both Tests would be risky business ahead of a packed calendar.
With his unique action and history of injuries, India can’t afford to lose him again. This selection might not be about performance, it might be about messaging: Bumrah is back, but on our terms.
India’s squad isn’t just a team list - it’s a strategic chessboard. With leadership experiments, fresh blood, and silent gambles like Bumrah, the West Indies series could quietly define India’s Test plans for 2025.
