Irfan Pathan backs this star pacer to play if Jasprit Bumrah not available for 2nd India vs England Test at Edgbaston

Irfan Pathan suggests who should replace Jasprit Bumrah if he misses the 2nd IND vs ENG Test, highlighting two strong contenders from India's current squad.

Written by: Ankit Kumar Edited by: Ankit Kumar

Published: July 1, 2025, 8:39 PM IST

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https://www.india.com/sports/irfan-pathan-backs-this-star-pacer-to-play-if-jasprit-bumrah-not-available-for-2nd-india-vs-england-test-at-edgbaston-washington-sundar-7918892/ Copy

Irfan Pathan backs this star pacer to play if Jasprit Bumrah not available for 2nd India vs England Test at Edgbaston

New Delhi: The second match of the much-awaited five-match Test series between India and England will be played at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham from Wednesday, July 2. India is already trailing 1-0 in the series, so this match can prove to be very important for Team India. In the first Test, England defeated India by 5 wickets, achieving a huge target of 371 runs, which has raised questions on the team’s strategy and combination. In such a situation, some changes are expected in the team.

If not Bumrah, then Washington Sundar should get a chance

Irfan Pathan believes that if Jasprit Bumrah does not play, then India should include Washington Sundar in the team. Sundar has the ability to give balance to the team with both ball and bat. According to Irfan, Sundar is a player who can score runs in the lower order and can also bowl spin with control in English conditions.

Akashdeep can be the second Shami

Irfan Pathan also said a big thing about fast bowler Akashdeep. He said, “Whatever has been seen in the nets, it seems that he is in rhythm. I think he is a bowler like Shami.” According to Irfan, Akashdeep’s seam position and late movement on the ball can put England batsmen in trouble.

Arshdeep’s angle and control are also effective

However, Irfan also gave a positive opinion about Arshdeep Singh. He said that Arshdeep is good with line-length and angle, but if an impact like Bumrah is needed then Akashdeep should be given priority.

Described Bumrah as ‘Jewel of the Nation’

Irfan Pathan reiterated Bumrah’s importance and said, “Bowlers like Bumrah are not found in every match, he is the gem of the nation.” He also added that if Bumrah’s workload is being managed, then the team should be ready for alternative bowlers.

Emphasis on lower order batting too

Irfan also says that the team should have depth in batting along with bowling. This can be benefited by an all-rounder like Sundar, who can also contribute with the bat in difficult times.

Tune-in: Watch 2nd Test Between India & England on July 2nd, 3:30 PM onwards LIVE On Sony Sports Ten 1 & Sony Sports Ten 5 channels