India’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand have raised concerns over the match fitness and readiness of their premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah.

The team management, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, had decided to rest Bumrah from the ODI and T20I assignments to keep him fresh for the longer format.

The decision was also aimed at avoiding unnecessary injury risks, which is why the experienced pacer did not feature in India’s first two practice matches.

However, things have not gone according to plan. Bumrah got an opportunity to bowl in the third practice match but managed only six overs, conceding 11 runs with one maiden over.

Persistent rain affected the contest, with the final two days being washed out.
As a result, Bumrah missed the chance to get valuable match practice before the upcoming Test series.

Although he can continue working on his bowling in the nets, the lack of match exposure could make it challenging for him to adjust to New Zealand’s conditions.

Despite being known for his control, he struggled with his discipline and bowled no-balls during the tour. Bumrah will also have to deal with the challenge of bowling in different wind conditions, which can influence line, length and swing.

The Indian team would have ideally wanted him to bowl at least 20-30 overs during the practice matches to get accustomed to the conditions.

However, with just six overs under his belt in the third practice game, his preparation has not gone as planned.

Prasidh Krishna, another important member of India’s pace attack, also had limited opportunities during the third practice match.

After recovering from injury, Krishna featured in the contest and bowled five overs. He made an immediate impact by picking up two wickets, but did not get enough time to build his rhythm or bowl longer spells.

The lack of match practice could become a concern as India prepare for the challenging conditions in New Zealand. Bumrah also faces the challenge of returning to Test cricket after a lengthy gap.

According to the supplied information, his previous Test appearance came against South Africa in November 2025. His return to the longest format will therefore be an important factor for India’s bowling plans.

Yashasvi Jaiswal led the batting effort with a century, scoring 102 runs. Sai Sudharsan contributed 88, while Dhruv Jurel added 71 runs to strengthen India’s position. Tilak Varma remained unbeaten on 81, and Washington Sundar also scored a half-century.

With the ball, India managed to take two wickets for 36 runs in 14 overs. Both breakthroughs came from Prasidh Krishna, who impressed with his limited opportunity.

However, rain eventually took over and prevented any further action during the final two days of the four-day practice match.

The weather interruption meant that several Indian bowlers missed out on the opportunity to spend more time in the middle.

The team management will hope that Bumrah and Krishna can regain their rhythm through net sessions before the opening Test.

Bumrah’s experience and ability to deliver in difficult conditions will be particularly important for India. However, the limited preparation time could make the challenge more demanding, especially against a New Zealand side familiar with its home conditions. India will be hoping that their leading fast bowlers are ready when the Test series gets underway.