Ian Bell says India must play Jasprit Bumrah if he is fit for the 2nd Test against England

Former England batter Ian Bell said India must include Jasprit Bumrah in the playing XI if he is fit for the second Test match against England. With India trailing 1-0 after losing the opening Test by five wickets at Leeds, Headingley, the visitors would look to bounce back in the series.

The tourists can not afford to trail by 2-0 in the series and if they decide to not play Bumrah, their chances of taking 20 wickets will reduce significantly. Bumrah had bagged a five-wicket haul in the first innings of the opening Test, returning with figures of 5-83.

However, it has been already decided that Bumrah will play three out of the five Test matches against England to manage his workload.

“I’d be amazed if he (Bumrah) only plays three Tests this summer. He’s the best fast bowler in the world, and if he doesn’t play, England will be very, very happy,” Bell told PTI Videos.

“Of course, you want to protect him (Bumrah), but if the series is on the line and he’s fit, he has to play,” he added.

Bell, who was known for his flamboyant drives, said India must play Kuldeep Yadav in the starting XI as the wrist spinner has the skill to turn the ball both ways.

“It (wicket) won’t turn early, but by day four or five, it could take spin,” Bell said. “Kuldeep (Yadav) is bowling beautifully. Someone who can spin it both ways is always a threat – especially to England’s lower order.”

On the other hand, the former England number three batter added that Rishabh Pant is one of his favorite cricketers. Pant scored twin centuries in the opening Test but his efforts went in vain.

“He’s certainly one of my favourite cricketers to watch,” Bell said. “When he comes out to bat, you want to tune in. Anything’s possible. He plays amazing shots, and even as an Englishman, you enjoy watching him though you’re desperate to get him out,” he added.

The second Test match between India and England will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham from July 2nd onwards.