‘Always wanted to play Test cricket, I rate it highly’ – Jasprit Bumrah

Bumrah is in line to play at Lord’s on 9 August, when the second of the five-Test series between England and India commences. He will miss the opening match of the series at Edgbaston, having sustained the thumb injury during the T20Is in Ireland.

Bumrah, 24, is just three Tests old. 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.

He is expected to slot right back into the playing XI after recovery, and given his love for the format, it’s understandable why he can’t contain his excitement.

"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 he was the type to meticulously plan ahead of overseas tours, and admitted he wished to explore England as much as possible.

“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.”

The first Test begins at Edgbaston on 1 August.