India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah was granted a well-deserved break during the fourth Test against England in Ranchi to manage his workload. Despite his absence, India clinched a remarkable five-wicket victory, securing the series in their favor. While reports indicate Bumrah’s return for the fifth and final match in Dharamshala, the team management is contemplating adjustments to the playing XI to balance player workload.
Amidst this consideration, struggling batter Rajat Patidar might receive another chance despite his poor performance in the series. Additionally, KL Rahul’s absence due to injury could pave the way for Devdutt Padikkal’s debut, with potential rotations aimed at managing player fatigue. However, decisions regarding resting in-form batters remain uncertain.
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Further reports suggest that a bowler may also be rested, given the anticipated favourable conditions for pacers in Dharamshala. Among the spinners, options such as Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, or Kuldeep Yadav could be rotated to maintain freshness in the bowling lineup.
Following the Ranchi Test, all Indian players returned home with plans to reconvene in Chandigarh on March 2, as per BCCI directives. Correspondingly, England players received similar instructions, with both teams scheduled to travel to Dharamshala on March 3 via chartered flights, gearing up for the fifth Test commencing on March 7.
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Renowned cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle shed light on the challenging conditions anticipated in the hill station of Dharamshala. With temperatures forecasted to plummet, Bhogle highlighted the extreme conditions players may face, with temperatures potentially dropping to 2 degrees Celsius and the possibility of snow.
“I am due to go to Dharamshala in a week. I checked the forecast today and just reading that makes me shiver. Max temperature forecast for March 07 (at this stage, hopefully it will change) is 10°. Temperature forecast at 7 am is 2°! Snow??,” Harsha Bhogle tweeted, emphasizing the harsh climate awaiting the players.
I am due to go to Dharamshala in a week. I checked the forecast today and just reading that makes me shiver. Max temperature forecast for March 07 (at this stage, hopefully it will change) is 10°. Temperature forecast at 7 am is 2°!
Snow?? pic.twitter.com/8H5JNMQF9n— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 27, 2024
