Will Jasprit Bumrah only play 3 IND vs ENG Tests? Gautam Gambhir gives big update on India's England Test tour

The much-awaited Test series between India and England is just around the corner with the first match starting on June 20.

India will walk into the series with a new leader Shubman Gill, who has taken over the Test captaincy. Alongside him, Gautam Gambhir continues his journey as head coach of the national side.

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As the team gears up for the English challenge, one big question has been on everyone’s mind- how many matches will Jasprit Bumrah play? Given his workload and injury history, there were already doubts if he’d feature in the full five-match series.

Now, ahead of departure, both Gambhir and Gill addressed the media and cleared the air on Bumrah’s participation. Let’s take a look at what Gautam Gambhir had to say.

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How many matches will Jasprit Bumrah play in the IND vs ENG Test series?

Gambhir has now confirmed that Bumrah will not be playing all five Tests. Instead, he will be available for only three matches. However, the specific games he will play are still to be decided.

Gambhir said, “We haven't taken the call on which 3 games he will play. We will have a discussion with him, depending on the series, results, and how the series is heading. I am sure he is very well aware of this as well.”

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This decision is based on fitness management, as Bumrah has previously missed long periods due to back issues. While his absence will surely be felt, Gambhir pointed out that this gives others a chance to shine.

“It is difficult to replace someone like Bumrah, but we have enough quality. Like I said in the Champions Trophy, it gives an opportunity to another player to put their hands up.”

Shubman Gill on Jasprit Bumrah's limited availability in England Tests

Indian Test captain Shubman Gill showed confidence in the bowlers picked for the England tour. He believes that the team has a good mix of fast bowlers who can handle tough situations even in Bumrah’s absence.

“I think we have picked enough bowlers and pace battery. Our fast bowlers are in a good space to win matches from any situation,” said Gill.

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Gill also added that whenever Bumrah takes the field, it will surely lift the team, but that the others are equally capable of getting the job done.

“Obviously, when we have a bowler like Jasprit Bumrah, depending on how many matches he would play, whenever he plays, it would be a great sight for us, but I think we have a great bunch of bowlers who can get the job done,” he added.

Complete India vs England Test series 2025 schedule and fixtures