Fri Nov 01 05:18:33 UTC 2024: ## Bumrah Out, India’s Pace Attack Takes Hit Ahead of Final Test
**Mumbai, India:** Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the final Test against New Zealand due to an unresolved viral illness, delivering a significant blow to the hosts’ bowling attack. The BCCI confirmed the news following speculation about Bumrah’s fitness earlier this week, as he was seen limiting his participation in training sessions.
Despite initial assurances from head coach Gautam Gambhir that Bumrah was managing his workload due to the Mumbai weather, the pacer was ultimately unable to recover in time for the series decider. Bumrah’s absence is a setback for India, especially considering his impressive form this season, claiming 14 wickets in the four Tests played so far.
The news comes as India is looking to manage Bumrah’s workload ahead of the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in November. He is expected to play a key role in the five-Test series, especially with Rohit Sharma likely to miss the opener.
The final Test in Mumbai got underway with New Zealand winning the toss and electing to bat in conducive conditions. While India replaced Bumrah with no other changes to their lineup, New Zealand also faced a setback with the loss of Mitchell Santner, replaced by Ish Sodhi. This final Test presents New Zealand with an unprecedented opportunity to claim a clean sweep of the series against the Indian team.
First Piper 