India’s main goal should be to prioritize Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant’s fitness: Ian Chappell

Ian Chappell and Jasprit Bumrah. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

India registered a dominating 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test match at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. Former Australian cricketer Ian Chappell has emphasized the importance of maintaining the fitness of key players Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. As India leads the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, Chappell has pointed out the team’s priorities moving forward.

In the recent Test match, Bumrah played a crucial role in India’s success, claiming four wickets in the first innings and adding another in the second. Looking ahead, India has a challenging schedule in the WTC, with upcoming series against New Zealand (three Tests at home) and Australia (five Tests away).

In his column for ESPNcricinfo, Chappell stressed that while India should aim to get more players into form, the primary focus must be on ensuring the fitness of Bumrah and Pant.

“India’s main goal should be to get as many players into form as possible while avoiding major injuries. However, the focus must be on ensuring the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant,” Chappell wrote.

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Rishabh Pant has evolved into a skilled gloveman: Ian Chappell

The veteran also praised Pant’s progress as a wicketkeeper, particularly against spin bowling. He emphasized Pant’s improvement after an ultimatum from former head coach Ravi Shastri.

“A keeper who meets these demands not only enhances the team’s fielding but also allows slip fielders to spread wider and cover more ground. Before his serious injury, Pant’s ability to stand up to the stumps significantly improved after an ultimatum from Shastri. His evolution from a questionable keeper against spinners to a skilled gloveman at the stumps shows his dedication,” he added.

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia, set to begin on November 22 in Perth, will be a significant test for the Indian team. With five Tests scheduled across various venues, including a day-night match in Adelaide, the series will once again test the side.