India’s bowling plans came under serious pressure during the fourth Test in Manchester, where they conceded over 500 runs for the first time in an overseas Test since 2015. The performance exposed a clear lack of support for the main fast bowlers and raised fresh concerns about team balance.
Young pacer Anshul Kamboj, making his debut, found it hard to make an impact. His pace remained around the mid-120s and he managed just one wicket. While he has impressed in domestic cricket, his first step into international cricket was far from convincing. Shardul Thakur, expected to support the main bowlers, also failed to deliver. His spells lacked control, leaving the attack heavily reliant on Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
Both Bumrah and Siraj bowled more than 25 overs each, with their pace dipping as the innings went on. Bumrah could not even touch the 140 mark on the third day, which showed the toll the workload had taken on him. With the two main pacers carrying the attack, the lack of a third reliable option stood out sharply.
India’s current approach has focused on adding more batting depth. Under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir, the team has often picked an extra batter instead of a full-time bowler. This has left bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav out of the side, even on surfaces where he could have made a difference.
The results of this plan have not been very strong. India have won only two of their last eight overseas Tests since this strategy began. Although there have been some strong individual bowling performances, the team has not been able to produce consistent success.
The Manchester Test showed how heavily India depend on Bumrah and Siraj. Without better support, the current balance leaves too many questions unanswered.