Delhi: Before the Test series against New Zealand cricket team, everyone's eyes will be on the return of Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. The third and last match of the four-day series will be played between India A and New Zealand A at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln on Saturday. In this match, 'Boom-Boom' Bumrah will have a good opportunity to test his fitness and bowling rhythm before returning to Test cricket.
32-year-old Bumrah would like to prepare himself before the two-Test series between India and New Zealand starting from November 19 in Wellington.
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Bumrah will enter red ball cricket after about a year
Indian team's leading fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has not played any Test or first-class match since the home Test series against South Africa in November 2025. Due to not being able to recover from his knee injury on time, he could not even go on the Sri Lanka tour in August.
Bumrah has got a place in Team India's squad for the Test series against New Zealand. However, he has been kept away from the ODI and T20 series, so that he can remain completely fit and fresh for Test cricket. India has to improve its position in the points table of the ICC World Test Championship and also keep the hopes of reaching the final alive.
Will keep an eye on how many overs are bowled
For India A, this match will be an opportunity to test Bumrah's fitness. During this time, not only his wickets will be monitored, but also how many overs he bowls and how long he is able to bowl continuously. The team management will also want to see how his body reacts after bowling at different times of the day.
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NZ vs IND test series will start from 19th November
This match against India A will be an important part of Bumrah's preparation for the Test series. India will hope that they can gain the necessary rhythm and confidence by bowling well in Lincoln. The first Test between New Zealand and India will be played in Wellington from 19 November, while the second and last Test will be played in Christchurch from 27 November.
FAQ
In which match will Jasprit Bumrah be seen playing before the Test series against New Zealand?
Bumrah will test his fitness and bowling rhythm in the third four-day match between India A and New Zealand A to be played in Lincoln.
When and where will the first test match between New Zealand and India be played?
The first match of the two-Test series between New Zealand and India will be played in Wellington from 19 November.