Keeping Bumrah, Pant free of injuries should be India's main priority: Chappell

Former Australia captain Ian Chappell believes that India must prioritise keeping Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant fit ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. India will travel to Australia in November this year to play the showpiece bilateral series.

In Short

• India play Australia in 5-match Test series in 2024/25
• Chappell believes India's top priority should be keeping Rishabh and Bumrah fit
• Rishabh Pant made a stunning comeback to Test cricket vs Bangladesh

Former Australia captain Ian Chappell has emphasised that maintaining pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant in top form and free from injuries is essential for India to secure a historic third consecutive series win in Australia.

Chappell, a highly respected figure in cricket, believes the upcoming five Test matches, including three against New Zealand, offer the perfect preparation for the Indian team ahead of their significant bilateral series in this World Test Championship cycle.

"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 in his ESPNCricinfo column.

Pant's impressive return to the Test scene after a serious car accident is crucial for the Indian lineup. He played a pivotal role in India's last series victory in 2020-21, scoring a vital 97 at Sydney and an unbeaten 89 at the Gabba, both of which are now legendary moments in Indian cricket.

Chappell pointed out the importance of Pant’s wicketkeeping skills on bouncy Australian pitches. "If Pant is at his best, he’s the ideal keeper for these conditions. A keeper must cover a lot of ground on both sides of the wicket," he explained.

He added, "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."

Chappell also noted that a firm warning from former head coach Ravi Shastri likely helped improve Pant’s glovework. "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," Chappell stated.

Bumrah's fitness is equally critical. Since returning from lower back stress fracture surgery in August 2023, the star bowler has effectively managed his workload across formats while remaining active in Test matches against South Africa and England.

"The fitness and form of both Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj—the two standout pace bowlers from the last Australian tour—are vital. Bumrah leads the attack, and it’s essential that he remains fit and in form for the bulk of the five Tests," Chappell remarked.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Chappell recalled how Dennis Lillee preferred to play as many matches as possible when in form rather than being overly rested. He also expressed hope that Mohammed Shami can return to fitness in time for the series. "Having Mohammed Shami fit would be ideal, but a quality left-arm paceman would also add variety to India's attack."

Chappell concluded that India's spin department is well-equipped with Jadeja and Ashwin, but he emphasised that Kuldeep Yadav's role on certain Australian pitches should not be overlooked.