Jasprit Bumrah is gearing up for another special outing at Lord’s, the iconic venue where he played a memorable role in India’s historic win back in 2021. After sitting out the second Test in Birmingham due to workload management, the pace spearhead returned to training with unmatched energy and enthusiasm. His presence has already lifted the mood in the Indian camp, with teammates enjoying his light-hearted banter and sharp observations during practice.
Yet, behind the playful demeanor lies Bumrah’s fierce competitive spirit. He bowled tirelessly for nearly an hour during optional training, testing batters with his trademark accuracy and swing. With memories of past success at Lord’s and a burning desire to make an impact again, Bumrah appears ready to lead India’s charge in the upcoming Test.
Bumrah’s Choice with the New Ball
When India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel asked whether he preferred the old ball or the new one, Jasprit Bumrah had no hesitation. “I’ll definitely take the new ball,” he responded confidently, picking one from the Dukes’ box. Moments later, Bumrah was down on his knees in an animated appeal, convinced he had found Karun Nair’s edge with a delivery that seamed away beautifully from a good length. It was a reminder of why he remains India’s spearhead in red-ball cricket.
A Long Gap Since Headingley
Bumrah last featured on June 24, during the final session of the first Test at Headingley. In that game, he sent down a marathon 43.4 overs, grabbing a five-wicket haul in the first innings before going wicketless in the second. Due to ongoing back concerns, team management decided he should feature in only three of the five Tests in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. That meant skipping the second Test in Birmingham, a move criticized by experts who feared India’s bowling would struggle against a powerful England side.
India Proves Critics Wrong
Those concerns quickly faded when India bounced back with a dominant win at Edgbaston, levelling the series. The victory lifted the mood in the camp, and as the team arrived at Lord’s for their first practice session, the atmosphere was relaxed. Leading the cheerful vibe was none other than Bumrah, who cracked jokes, kept spirits high, and reminded everyone of his playful side. After watching Nitish Kumar Reddy send down a sharp outswinger, Bumrah teased, “good one, Brett Lee.” Even Shardul Thakur joined the fun, bowing at Bumrah’s feet in a light-hearted gesture that drew laughter all around.
Intensity with Ball in Hand
Despite the smiles, Bumrah’s intensity during training never dropped. For nearly an hour, he bowled tirelessly without a break, showing his hunger for match practice. The session was optional, and several senior players, including Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Washington Sundar, chose to rest. Even Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, India’s successful new-ball pair from Edgbaston, were absent. Yet Bumrah continued relentlessly, challenging the likes of Karun Nair, B Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, and Dhruv Jurel, testing their patience and skill as he built up rhythm ahead of the Lord’s.
Fond Memories of Lord’s 2021
For Bumrah, Lord’s is a special ground. His most memorable outing came during India’s famous win on the 2021 tour. While he made little impact early in that match, his defining moment arrived in the third innings. With India in trouble, he forged a dramatic, unbroken 89-run partnership with Mohammed Shami for the final wicket. That stand shifted momentum, giving India the upper hand. When it was India’s turn to bowl, Bumrah struck early, removing Rory Burns in the first over. Later, he dismissed England captain Joe Root and finished with Ollie Robinson’s wicket, sealing a famous victory for India at the “Home of Cricket.”
Bumrah’s Ability to Adapt
That 2021 Lord’s pitch was relatively flat, unlike the more bowler-friendly surfaces usually found in England. Yet Bumrah found ways to make an impact. His mastery of reverse swing, subtle variations, and clever angles kept the English batters guessing. With conditions expected to be fair this time and temperatures touching the early 30s Celsius, the surface at Lord’s could play differently. On Tuesday, it carried a noticeable green tinge, which India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak described as “challenging.” But conditions have never unsettled Bumrah, who thrives on adapting and finding ways to make things happen.
Team India’s Trust in Bumrah
Even with ongoing workload management and concerns about his back, Bumrah’s presence lifts India’s attack. His ability to take wickets with the new ball, apply pressure in the middle overs, and reverse the old ball makes him indispensable. His return to Lord’s not only boosts the bowling unit but also adds belief to the entire squad. For a team chasing series momentum, his form could make the defining difference.
Eyes Set on Thursday’s Test
As India prepares for the third Test at Lord’s, Bumrah’s focus is firmly on execution. The image of him charging in, ball after ball, during a practice session where attendance was optional, underlined his hunger. While others conserved energy, he sharpened his skills, fine-tuning his rhythm and reminding everyone of the standards he sets. With fond memories from 2021 and an unwavering commitment to India’s cause, Bumrah looks primed to make another lasting impact at cricket’s most iconic venue.
FAQs
Why did Jasprit Bumrah miss the second Test?
Bumrah was rested due to workload management and back concerns, with plans for him to play only three Tests in the series.
What makes Lord’s special for Bumrah?
Bumrah played a key role in India’s famous 2021 win at Lord’s, contributing with the bat and ball in a match remembered for its drama.
How has Bumrah prepared for his return?
He trained for nearly an hour without rest, testing batters with his pace and swing during optional practice sessions at Lord’s.
What impact does Bumrah have on India’s team?
His presence adds confidence, variety, and control to India’s bowling attack, making him the leader of the pace unit in English conditions.
What are the pitch conditions expected at Lord’s?
The pitch has a greenish tinge and is expected to be challenging, but Bumrah’s adaptability makes him effective in all conditions.
Conclusion
Jasprit Bumrah’s return to Lord’s carries both promise and expectation. His ability to balance a cheerful presence with unmatched intensity makes him a vital force for India. Having enjoyed success at this venue before, he arrives in top rhythm and high spirits, eager to deliver once more. For India, his performance could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of the series and reinforcing their belief on English soil.
