Ahead of the second Test between England and India, which will begin on July 2, 2025, at Edgbaston, India cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has backed Arshdeep Singh to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India XI, in case the ace pacer is rested.
Rahane also wanted Shardul Thakur to be retained in the India XI, despite his poor returns in the first Test in Leeds, as the Mumbai captain feels that Thakur might be to go-to guy for Shubman Gill to take wickets.
In the Leeds Test, Shardul was not given much confidence with the ball because he only bowled six overs in the first innings, but he bowled ten overs and took a few wickets in the second innings. He did, however, have an economy rate of more than five in both innings, making him costly.
Having led India to multiple historic Test triumphs, Ajinkya Rahane thinks the team is unlikely to undergo significant change. In the event that Jasprit Bumrah is rested for the upcoming game, he supported Arshdeep Singh as the best substitute.
"I do not see too many changes. I think if Bumrah doesn't play, I would like to see Arshdeep Singh play. If there is bounce and little grass on the wicket, then continue with Prasidh Krishna. If it looks dry and the weather is also hot, then in place of Prasidh Krishna, my choice will be Kuldeep Yadav. And Ravindra Jadeja as two spinners. If Bumrah doesn't play, then Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur," Rahane said on his YouTube channel.
After Shubman underutilized Shardul in the first Test match, Rahane reaffirmed his claim that he is a wicket-taking option and urged him to use the ball effectively.
"I would like to see Shardul playing this Test because he is your guy who can get you wickets. So these three and two spinners. If there is good bounce and movement, then back Prasidh Krishna. He will be the right guy on a seaming wicket," he added.
However, despite Rahane’s trust in Thakur, it might be difficult for him to keep his place in the India XI as his performance with the bat was below par. India wants to bolster their bottom middle order; therefore, Nitish Kumar Reddy, who made his debut on the Australia tour last year, is anticipated to make an appearance in the starting lineup.
