Mumbai: As anticipation builds for the third Test between India and England at Lord’s, former India pacer and cricket expert Varun Aaron has weighed in on India’s possible team composition and bowling strategy. Speaking on ‘Game Plan’ on JioHotstar, Aaron shared sharp insights into the dynamics of India’s pace attack and the likely changes in the playing XI.
Bumrah Set to Return, Nitish Likely to Be Rested
Aaron confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah, rested for the previous Test, is expected to make his return. However, the real question lies in whether India will opt for a four-pacer attack or maintain their three-pronged pace strategy.
“Jasprit Bumrah is definitely going to come in. The debate is whether India goes with four seamers or sticks to three,” Aaron noted. “Nitish Kumar Reddy is likely to be rested. He couldn’t contribute much with either bat or ball in the last match. He’s a talented youngster, but India might look at reshuffling to optimise conditions.”
With both batting and bowling units showing depth and form, India has the flexibility to either reinforce the middle-order or go full throttle with their pace artillery.
Siraj and Akash Deep: The Duo Making the Difference
Mohammed Siraj’s recent performances have particularly impressed Aaron, who believes the Hyderabad pacer will now play a key role as first-change bowler.
“Siraj should come in as first change. The way he’s zipping the ball through with the slightly older Dukes ball is incredible,” Aaron said. “His seam position and control have been exceptional. His dismissal of Zak Crawley—tempting him outside off—was pure class.”
Aaron also heaped praise on Akash Deep, calling him one of the most effective new-ball bowlers in the world right now.
“You just can’t leave Akash Deep out. His new-ball average is among the best globally at the moment. He’s a captain’s dream—much like Bumrah—ready to bowl anywhere, anytime.”
England Batters Face a Tricky Challenge
Aaron was candid in his assessment of England’s top-order struggles and how India’s bowling attack could further expose vulnerabilities at Lord’s.
“England’s batters are going to be uncomfortable, especially after what Siraj and Akash did in the last Test. With Bumrah returning, it’s going to be even tougher. This is a pace unit that attacks relentlessly.”
He also lauded the role of India’s spinners and supporting pacers in building pressure.
“Ravindra Jadeja has been incredibly accurate, hitting the right lengths consistently. Washington Sundar has shown a calm head, and even Prasidh Krishna, especially in that final spell at Edgbaston, bowled with serious intent and purpose.”
Looking Ahead
With India’s bowling unit clicking, and Bumrah set to rejoin a lineup that already includes in-form names like Siraj, Akash Deep, and Jadeja, England’s batters will have to bring their A-game to stay in contention.
The third Test at Lord’s promises high-stakes action, and with both teams jostling for control, India’s potent bowling attack could be the decisive factor. As Aaron summed up, “This is a team with options—and that makes them dangerous.”
