The curious case of India resting chief destroyer Jasprit Bumrah

Bumrah boasts incredible numbers with the red ball. The seamer has 210 Test scalps at a miserly average of 19.60, but he is prone to injury. Recently, the 31-year-old suffered back spasms that saw him miss the Champions Trophy.

At the time of the announcement of the Test squad for the England tour, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that Bumrah would play just three of the five Test matches in the series to manage his workload. Now that it's actually happening, it's become a hot topic among the press. 

Bumrah claimed 5/140 in the run-soaked first Test in Leeds and England emerged victors on the final day. With the visitors one behind in the five-match series, many expected to see Bumrah again in Birmingham this week, but Akash Deep was named in his place.

"Just to manage his workload," explained India captain Shubman Gill after losing the toss on Thursday.

"We did get a good break and this is an important match for us. But the third Test being at Lord's, we think there'll be more in that pitch so we'll use him there.

"No, we won't change the plans. For us to manage his workload is more important because there's a lot of cricket going forward, and we know what he brings to the table as well. Before he came on the show, it was already decided that he was going to play three Test matches."

Speaking to Sky Cricket, former England quick Stuart Broad was surprised at the strategy.

“A week is a very good time off for a fast bowler," said Broad.

“[Bumrah's omission] does surprise me and what also surprised me was him saying before the series he will only play three of the five Tests. You keep those cards close to your chest and play each week as it comes.

"They will definitely want Bumrah at Lord’s because of the movement you can get through the air."

England captain Ben Stokes wasn't drawn into the debate.

"[Bumrah is] India's problem to deal with," he told the press.  

"I am the captain of England. Let India decide what they want to do and what they want to say publicly."

The most scathing view came from India great Ravi Shastri.

"If you look at the run India has had, this becomes a very, very important test match," said the former India coach.

"You've lost three against New Zealand, you've lost three against Australia, you've lost the first test match here, and you want to get back to winning ways.

"You have the best fast bowler in the world and you make him sit out after seven days of rest? It's something very hard to believe."