According to former Indian batsman Mohammad Kaif, India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah may soon retire from Test cricket. With India playing the fourth Test against England in Manchester, Kaif has pointed to a decline in Bumrah’s fitness, especially his speed.
He used to regularly bowl at 140 kmph, but now his speed has dropped to around 130-135 kmph. Kaif believes that Bumrah’s body is no longer able to achieve the required capacity for Test cricket. The 31-year-old fast bowler has so far taken only one wicket in Manchester and conceded more than 100 runs for the first time in this format, as well as being seen holding his leg during the innings.
Jasprit had to play only three Tests in this series to manage his workload. However, Kaif said that Bumrah can retire from this format anytime. Bumrah has played 48 Test matches so far and has been a reliable bowler, and his retirement from this format will leave a big void in the Indian team. So let’s know about those players who can replace Bumrah in the team
3 players who can replace Jasprit Bumrah in Test cricket
1. Arshdeep Singh
Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh has become a key member of India’s ODI squad. But, he is yet to make his Test debut. The pacer has been included in the Test squad for the first time for the ongoing India-England series. However, just before his potential debut in the fourth Test in Manchester, Arshdeep was ruled out due to a thumb injury suffered during a training session.
Arshdeep has been included in the squad after consistent ODI performances and a strong first-class record of 66 wickets in 21 matches at an average of 30.37. Playing county cricket with Kent in 2023 has honed his skills in English conditions.
Despite being a T20 star who took 97 wickets in 82 matches for Punjab Kings, he is yet to shine in this format. With the news of Bumrah being dropped from the squad, Arshdeep could be a reliable bowler the team management can rely on.
2. Vijay Kumar Vaishak
Karnataka’s Vijay Kumar Vaishak can be another option in red-ball cricket. Known for his experiments with the ball and slow deliveries, this right-arm medium pacer has had an impressive domestic season so far. In 26 first-class matches, he has taken more than 100 wickets at an average of 23.88, including five wickets in an innings thrice.
After making his debut for Karnataka, Vaishak caught everyone’s attention by taking nine wickets for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2023. However, he got fewer opportunities in 2024, but was bought by Punjab Kings for Rs 1.80 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction.
In the IPL, he has taken 17 wickets in 16 matches. Notably, he was included in the international team for the first time for India’s tour of South Africa in 2024-25 but, he is yet to make his debut for India. If he is given a chance in Tests, he can also be a better option.
3. Akash Madhwal
With the news of Jasprit Bumrah retiring from Test cricket, Uttarakhand pacer Akash Madhwal could become India’s next red-ball pacer option. The 31-year-old has already performed brilliantly in the IPL. Notably, a brilliant 5/5 for Mumbai Indians in the 2023 Eliminator, which is the best IPL figures for an Indian player after Anil Kumble.
Madhwal started competitive cricket at the age of 24 after quitting engineering, and impressed domestic coaches like Wasim Jaffer and Manish Jha. With his performance in the IPL and his ability to bowl with both new and old ball, he could prove to be a key player for the Test team.
In 14 first-class matches, he has taken 16 wickets at an economy of 3.49. At the same time, in 17 IPL matches, he has taken 23 wickets. Madhwal’s age may be a big reason but, his performance ability can do wonders for the team.
FAQ
Has Jasprit Bumrah officially announced his retirement from Test cricket?
No, Jasprit Bumrah has not announced his retirement. This article discusses potential replacements if he chooses to retire in the future.
Why is there speculation about Bumrah’s retirement from Tests?
Due to his recurring injuries and workload management, there are ongoing concerns that Bumrah may prioritize limited-overs formats in the coming years.
Who are the 3 players mentioned as potential replacements?
The article highlights Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, and Arshdeep Singh as potential Test replacements for Bumrah.
Why were these three bowlers chosen?
These bowlers were selected based on their domestic performances, pace, swing ability, and consistency in red-ball cricket.
