Team India had a rough start to the 5-match Test series against England as they lost the series opener at Edgbaston by 31 runs and are now lagging by 1-0. They might be looking to make some changes in the second Test at Lord’s scheduled to start from August 9. However, the visitors have been dealt with a serious blow as their ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to recover from his injury.

According to the reports in Cricket Next, Bumrah is yet to attain 100% fitness as he sustained a thumb injury during the first T20 International against Ireland. Though he is currently bowling in the nets without any sign of discomfort, his thumb will require more time to heal. The team is already missing the services of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and it seems that the bowling attack will remain the same for the second consecutive Test.

ALSO READ: England fans mocked Virat Kohli after losing the first Test

While announcing the squad, the selectors were hopeful of him getting fit until the second Test has said, “Jasprit Bumrah who has been included in the squad will be available for selection from the 2nd Test onwards based on his fitness.”

Ravi Ashwin bowled some impactful spells in the first Test and returned with 7 wickets. He was India’s best bowler in the match and many felt that the visitors should’ve played two spinners to rattle the hosts’ batting line-up. It remains to be seen if Kuldeep Yadav or Ravindra Jadeja gets a chance in the second Test.

Hardik Pandya’s place is also under scrutiny after is mediocre performances on the tour so far. If India is to play another spinner, Umesh Yadav or Hardik is the likeliest candidate to be dropped from the playing XI as they underperformed with the ball at Edgbaston. Cheteshwar Pujara might make a comeback at the top of the order at the expense of Shikhar Dhawan or KL Rahul.