Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, a key figure in India’s last Test series win in England back in 2007, has shared valuable insights ahead of India’s upcoming five-match Test series against England. With India missing the services of experienced players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R Ashwin, Ganguly believes India still has what it takes to win—if they manage their resources wisely.
Ganguly’s Crucial Advice to Shubman Gill on Jasprit Bumrah
Ganguly stressed that India’s chances could hinge on how skipper Shubman Gill handles ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking to Revsportz, Ganguly advised Gill to avoid overusing Bumrah and to treat him as a strike weapon rather than a workhorse.
“Shubman Gill needs to understand not to bowl Bumrah into the ground. Use him as a wicket-taker, use him in short spells, so that he remains fit for five Test matches,” Ganguly said. He emphasized the importance of giving Bumrah enough rest and letting other pacers like Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj take up more responsibility.
“Make sure the others chip in—young Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, who has got tremendous fitness and is a warhorse. Bumrah has to be preserved for impact, not volume,” Ganguly explained. He added that with the presence of seasoned minds like Gautam Gambhir and other senior players, Gill will have the support needed to make smart calls on the field.
When Should India Rest Bumrah? Ganguly Weighs In
Ganguly also addressed concerns about Bumrah’s fitness and workload management. If the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recommends playing Bumrah in only three out of the five Tests, Ganguly suggested a specific strategy.
“Hoping Bumrah remains fit for the five Test matches. Even if it means giving him a break after the second Test and then bringing him back for the fourth and fifth, it’s worth it,” he said.
The former skipper believes that a fully fit Bumrah can be a game-changer, even if he only plays in four matches. “Nothing stops India from winning. There is no one favourite in sports. India, if they work hard and Bumrah stays fit even for four Tests, will win this series,” Ganguly concluded.
With a mix of young talent and strategic planning, Ganguly remains confident that India can end their long wait for a Test series win in England.
