The second Test of the ENG vs IND series, set to commence on July 2, 2025, at Edgbaston, Birmingham, is poised to be a critical juncture for the Indian cricket team. After a disappointing five-wicket loss in the first Test at Leeds, India, led by captain Shubman Gill, are under pressure to bounce back and level the series. The potential absence of their talismanic pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, due to workload management, has sparked intense speculation about the team’s bowling lineup. Reports suggest that Akash Deep, rather than Arshdeep Singh, is the frontrunner to step into Bumrah’s shoes for this crucial ENG vs IND clash. This article delves into the dynamics of this selection dilemma, the strengths of both bowlers, and what it means for India’s strategy in the ENG vs IND 2nd Test.
The Context: ENG vs IND First Test Recap
The ENG vs IND series kicked off with a high-scoring encounter at Headingley, where India’s batting showed promise but their bowling unit struggled to contain England’s aggressive approach, often referred to as “Bazball.” Jasprit Bumrah was the standout performer, claiming a five-wicket haul in the first innings with figures of 5/140 in 43.4 overs, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 3.20. However, the rest of the bowling attack, including Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Shardul Thakur, was inconsistent, conceding 482 runs for nine wickets across 92 overs. England chased down a daunting 371 runs, led by Ben Duckett’s 149, exposing India’s reliance on Bumrah. With workload management concerns looming, the team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, is reportedly planning to rest Bumrah for the ENG vs IND 2nd Test, making the choice of his replacement a pivotal decision.
Why Rest Bumrah?
Jasprit Bumrah’s importance to the Indian team cannot be overstated. As one of the world’s premier fast bowlers, his ability to deliver wicket-taking balls and maintain control is unmatched. In the first ENG vs IND Test, he bowled a marathon 44 overs, a significant workload for a fast bowler, especially in a five-match series. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has emphasized that Bumrah will likely play only three of the five Tests to ensure his fitness for the entire tour and beyond. A report by the Indian Express suggests that Bumrah is expected to return for the third Test at Lord’s on July 10, making his absence in the ENG vs IND 2nd Test a strategic move to preserve his long-term fitness. This decision, while pragmatic, poses a challenge for India, as replacing Bumrah’s quality and experience is no easy task.
The Contenders: Akash Deep vs. Arshdeep Singh
With Bumrah potentially sidelined, the spotlight has turned to India’s bench strength, particularly Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh. Both bowlers bring distinct skills to the table, and their selection will depend on the conditions at Edgbaston and India’s tactical approach for the ENG vs IND 2nd Test.
Akash Deep: The Shami-Like Seamer
Akash Deep, a 28-year-old right-arm seamer from Bengal, has emerged as the likely candidate to replace Bumrah, according to multiple reports, including one from Inside Sport India. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has endorsed Akash, likening his bowling style to Mohammed Shami. Pathan highlighted Akash’s ability to generate late movement with straight-seam deliveries, which could trouble England’s aggressive batters. Unlike Siraj and Prasidh, who were erratic in Leeds, Akash is seen as a bowler who doesn’t rely on hitting the deck hard, allowing the ball to swing naturally—a valuable asset in English conditions.
Akash Deep has played seven Tests for India, with his last appearance being the Boxing Day Test against Australia in December 2024. He has taken 15 wickets in his Test career, though his recent performances have been inconsistent, with only five wickets in four innings during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and two against New Zealand at home. Despite these struggles, Akash’s experience in Test cricket and his performance in the nets at Edgbaston have reportedly impressed the team management. Former Indian pacer Varun Aaron also backed Akash, praising his ability to pitch the ball up and move it both ways, making him a suitable option for the ENG vs IND 2nd Test.
Arshdeep Singh: The Swing Specialist
Arshdeep Singh, a 26-year-old left-arm pacer, is yet to make his Test debut but brings a compelling case to the table. His ability to swing the ball both ways, particularly in swing-friendly English conditions, makes him a strong contender. Arshdeep’s experience in county cricket with Kent in 2023, where he took 13 wickets in five matches, adds to his credentials. His white-ball prowess, including being India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, showcases his ability to perform under pressure. In the nets at Edgbaston, Arshdeep was seen practicing with both new and old balls, indicating his potential to exploit reverse swing, a factor that could be crucial in Birmingham.
Despite these strengths, Arshdeep’s lack of Test experience and modest red-ball numbers—four wickets in three innings in the 2024 Ranji Trophy—have raised questions about his readiness. Some argue that his inclusion would add variety to India’s pace attack, with his left-arm angle posing a unique challenge to England’s batsmen. However, reports suggest that Akash Deep is ahead in the pecking order, potentially leaving Arshdeep on the bench for the ENG vs IND 2nd Test.
Tactical Considerations for ENG vs IND
The Edgbaston pitch is expected to favor pacers in the first two days before becoming more batting-friendly, similar to the surface at Headingley. With a 10-25% chance of rain during the five days, swing bowling could play a significant role. India’s bowling strategy will hinge on finding a balance between control and wicket-taking ability, especially without Bumrah. The team’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, expressed confidence in the bowling unit’s ability to compete without Bumrah, stating that India could still level the series at 1-1. However, the erratic performances of Siraj (economy rate of 4.21) and Prasidh (6.28) in Leeds highlight the need for a more disciplined approach.
India’s selection dilemma extends beyond the pace department. The team is considering including an extra spinner, with Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar in contention for the second spinner’s slot alongside Ravindra Jadeja. Kuldeep’s wrist-spin could exploit the later stages of the Edgbaston pitch, while Sundar offers batting depth. Additionally, Nitish Kumar Reddy is Stuart Thakur’s inclusion could provide all-round support. The final playing XI for the ENG vs IND
