India might give their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah a much-needed break in their final group-stage clash against Oman in Abu Dhabi on Friday (September 19), according to reports.
With India already through to the Super Four, the management is expected to rest the fast bowler as part of workload management ahead of the knockout phase.
Bumrah’s Quiet Tournament So Far
Bumrah has bowled economically so far—going at just 6.71 runs an over—but has only three wickets in two matches. Against Pakistan, he conceded two sixes but still managed two wickets, while his outing versus UAE saw him give away just 19 runs in three overs for one wicket.
Although he hasn’t looked at his absolute best, Bumrah remains India’s trump card, and the think tank is believed to be saving him for the crunch fixtures ahead.
Who Could Replace Him?
If Bumrah sits out, the likely replacement will be Arshdeep Singh or Harshit Rana. Arshdeep’s experience in T20Is and his skill in the death overs could give him an edge, while Harshit brings wicket-taking ability and raw pace to the table.
According to a PTI report, this could be the only change in India’s XI against Oman.
Why Rest Bumrah Now?
The schedule is unforgiving. India’s Super Four matches are slated for September 21, 24, and 26, with the final on September 28. If they go all the way, Bumrah could be bowling four times in seven days. Resting him in a “dead rubber” makes sense, keeping him fresh for Afghanistan and Sri Lanka in the next round.
India’s Probable XI vs Oman (If Bumrah is rested)
- Shubman Gill
- Abhishek Sharma
- Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav (C)
- Sanju Samson (WK)
- Hardik Pandya
- Axar Patel
- Shivam Dube
- Arshdeep Singh / Harshit Rana
- Varun Chakravarthy
- Kuldeep Yadav
The Road Ahead
For India’s batting unit, especially the top and middle order, this Oman game is a chance to spend valuable time in the middle. Their first two matches were too one-sided, and a solid hit-out could sharpen them for tougher challenges ahead.
