Bumrah's Fitness in Doubt as India Preps for Second Test; Arshdeep and Akash Deep Vie for Spot

The Indian cricket team commenced their preparations in Birmingham with an intensive three-hour training session on Friday morning. Despite sunny skies, a steady breeze provided comfortable conditions for the players.

Shubman Gill and the team arrived at the venue around 9:15 am local time, with all players present for their first experience of Birmingham's cricket environment.

Team India during the net session in Birmingham.

Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna were notably absent from the net area, although they had traveled with the team. They returned with the squad on the team bus but did not participate in the batting and bowling drills. It was confirmed that neither player left the stadium.

Mohammed Siraj focused exclusively on his batting skills, dedicating significant time to drills with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. He practiced leaving, ducking, and playing various deliveries for nearly 30 minutes before rejoining his fellow seamers.

The absence of Bumrah and Krishna from bowling activities suggests possible workload management, considering the long tour ahead. This issue is currently a trending keyword within the Indian camp. The decision regarding Bumrah's participation in the second Test will be made in consultation with the medical team, potentially creating opportunities for those waiting on the sidelines.

Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh underwent extended spells with both bat and ball, closely monitored by head coach Gautam Gambhir and his support staff.

Arshdeep has been working closely with bowling coach Morne Morkel, refining his run-up, back-foot landing, and overall alignment. The duo consistently exchanged feedback after each delivery. Arshdeep maintains his intensity and is always eager to challenge his Punjab teammate, Gill, in the nets.

Gill often seeks out Arshdeep when he needs to focus on specific aspects of his game, with Arshdeep delivering full-intensity bowling to test the right-hander. Akash Deep mirrors this intensity. Should Bumrah be unavailable, either Arshdeep or Akash could be drafted into the Playing XI, as India requires a new-ball bowler with the ability to control and utilize the red cherry effectively.

With time still remaining before the Test on July 2, both seamers are making a strong impression during training, potentially making the selection decision challenging for the Indian team management. The ultimate decision hinges on Bumrah's availability.

Akash, at his best, can trouble any batsman, and Arshdeep could prove to be India's surprise weapon.