Stokes’ Frustration on Day Four
During the fourth day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Ben Stokes was on the field for almost all of the 63 overs India batted. As the Indian team struggled to overcome a 311-run first-innings deficit, Stokes felt the urge to bowl but was explicitly restricted from doing so.
India’s Recovery and Stokes’ Challenge
Stokes watched with growing frustration as K.L. Rahul and Shubman Gill led a recovery from a precarious 0 for 2 to close the day at 174 without further loss. It was clear that the next morning would see the third-wicket partnership facing Stokes’ relentless drive.
Grimacing Through Pain
On the final day, Stokes bowled multiple overs, grimacing in pain after every delivery. Despite discomfort in his shoulder, he managed a remarkable spell of 8-2-12-1, showcasing resilience. However, he chose to limit his overs to preserve himself for the last Test after realizing the difficulty of rescuing his teammates from a battered position.
Medical Reality and Stokes’ Decision
Even the indomitable Stokes couldn’t ignore medical advice as scans showed a grade three muscle tear in his shoulder requiring at least six weeks of rest. He considered playing solely as a batter but ultimately opted out, watching India’s thrilling six-run win from the balcony.
Bumrah’s Absence and Its Impact
Joining Stokes on the sidelines was Jasprit Bumrah, a top-tier bowler hailed as one of the most feared in cricket. His absence was a significant loss for the Indian side, particularly as they aimed to leave England with shared honors in the series decider at the Oval, where conditions were expected to favor him.
Bumrah’s Performance and Medical Constraints
Bumrah had excelled in past matches, gathering 87 wickets in 17 Tests at an impressive average. Though he was keen to play at the Oval, he faced restrictions from medical staff concerning the number of overs he could bowl, leading to his reluctant withdrawal.
Future Considerations for India
The dilemma of managing Bumrah’s availability poses significant challenges for the team. His value is undeniable, but his sporadic participation complicates the selection and cohesion of the bowling unit. As India looks ahead, addressing Bumrah’s situation will be crucial for success, especially with upcoming tours that may be affected by his limited availability.
