Test cricket is at the paramount level for me, says Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah would miss the opening match of the Test series in Birmingham, having sustained the thumb injury during the T20Is in Ireland. However, he would be in line to play at Lord’s on August 9, when the second of the five-Test series between England and India commences. 

Bumrah, 24, has just played three Tests. He made his debut earlier this year during India’s three-match series in South Africa and has so far picked up 14 wickets in his short Test career. Given his excellent performances, he would slot right back into the playing XI after recovery. He stated that Test matches have been the pinnacle of cricket for him and he has always enjoyed donning the whites. 

"I enjoy playing each and every format but for me, Test cricket is at the paramount level because I feel everything is tested at that level," he told his IPL franchise Mumbai Indians’ official website. “I always wanted to play Test cricket. I was happy when I finally got to play it in South Africa. The start also went well. I always loved Test cricket and I rate it very highly.

"Hopefully, whenever I play more, I'll be able to do well and gain more confidence. So that will reflect on other formats as well. I don't have any (other) personal goals. I take it one day at a time.”

Bumrah revealed that he does his planning for the touring country beforehand and insisted that it was important to enjoy and explore the touring country on long tours. 

“You look to enjoy the country, you look to see the place,” he said. “That is how you get to know about the culture of the place, and you eventually start enjoying the country. It then reflects on your performance as well.

"Whenever I go to a new country, I always plan in advance. Before visiting the country, I have a look at a few videos. What works over there. What the home team does over there. It is very important for long tours to enjoy the country and see the places. So that's the basic thing that I look to follow.”