Ajinkya Rahane picks his bowling attack for ENG vs IND 2025 2nd Test, backs Shardul Thakur

India’s former captain Ajinkya Rahane believes the visitors should pick their bowling attack according to the pitch condition for the second Test against England. Rahane backed his Mumbai teammate Shardul Thakur to retain his place despite the all-rounder not delivering in the series opener.

The Indian veteran batter wants Arshdeep Singh to replace Jasprit Bumrah if the latter is rested to manage his workload. Rahane urged the management to continue with Prasidh Krishna if the pitch has bounce whereas he wants Kuldeep Yadav to play in place of Krishna if the pitch is dry.

“I do not see too many chances. I think if Bumrah doesn’t play I would like to see Arshdeep Singh playing. If there is bounce and little grass on the wicket then continue with Prasidh Krishna. If it looks dry and the weather is also hot, then in place of Prasidh Krishna my choice will be Kuldeep Yadav. And Ravindra Jadeja as two spinners. If Bumrah doesn’t play then Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur,” Ajinkya Rahane said on his YouTube Channel.

Rahane said Thakur can be a wicket-taking option for the tourists.

“I would like to see Shardul playing this Test because he is your guy who can get you wickets. So these three and two spinners. If there is good bounce and movement then back Prasidh Krishna. He will be the right guy on a seaming wicket,” he added.

Rahane picked Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja to do well in the second Test match against England.

Rahane concluded, “Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja. If Bumrah does not play then Siraj will have to take that responsibility. He has the ability to get those wickets and bowl a match-winning spell. If the sun is out on day four and day five and the wicket is dry, there will be turn from the rough, then Jadeja will do well. I am looking forward to see these two guys.” 

The second Test match between India and England will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham from July 2nd onwards.