Left Arm Around

India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah is rumoured to be rested for the upcoming fourth Test against England in Ranchi.

Victory for the hosts will secure yet another home series win; an unbeaten run that dates back to 2012.

Bumrah was a notable absentee as the two teams touched down in Ranchi ahead of the match starting on Friday.

The 30-year-old has been a thorn in England’s side in the three Tests thus far, taking 17 wickets at a startling average of 13.64.

The potential absence of Bumrah paves the way for a seamer like Mukesh Kumar to slot in and support Mohammad Siraj, or for all-rounder Axar Patel to return if the pitch is particularly spin-friendly.

Whatever happens, the tourists need a dramatic upturn in performance following an awful capitulation in Rajkot last week.

Bumrah’s omission is a great plus for England, but it’s time for the likes of Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow to step up and make an impact.

There’s a series waiting to be won…