Monty Panesar has made a big statement on Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah, days after the ENG vs IND Test series ended in a 2-2 draw. He was impressed by Gill’s captaincy, highlighting India’s ability to win Tests without Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj was magnificent in Bumrah’s absence and took five-wicket hauls in the team’s two victories.

“Shubman Gill doesn’t need Jasprit Bumrah to win Test matches. He doesn’t need the best bowler in the world. I think India can win Tests without Bumrah. It is a big achievement of his captaincy,” Panesar told Hindustan Times.

Panesar said that Bumrah should be used for overseas red-ball matches.

“He should play overseas Test matches, and rest him from the home games. India can beat any team without him at home, but he is the X-factor for overseas Test matches. They can tell him that he is no longer needed for home Tests. But for the away games, we do,” he added.

Siraj is key to Team India’s success: Panesar

Panesar also praised Siraj, who played all five Test matches and bowled over 1000 balls.

“Siraj is the key bowler, and India should build their attack around him. His fitness is important. Jasprit Bumrah doesn’t have the fitness to play the five Tests. Mohammed Siraj can win the games. He is the key to whether India can win a series or not. Siraj is important for Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill in the away series.”

Former players want the team management and selectors to take care of Siraj’s workload as well. He is likely to play in the home Test series against the West Indies later this year.