New Delhi: In the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, Bangladesh’s chances have increased manifold in their Champions Trophy opener against India on February 20, feels former batter Imrul Kayes.
India’s pace spearhead Bumrah has been ruled out of the event with a back injury sustained in the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Australia.
Bumrah has began rehabilitation after a five-week complete bed rest but scans revealed he is yet to recover fully from his injury and was not included in India’s 15-member squad for the tournament.
India begin their campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai in a tournament where they are considered to be overwhelming favourites. But Kayes said despite India’s strength, Bangladesh do have a chance.
“India is a strong side with a great bowling attack and batting line-up. But Bumrah is not in the squad. We all know what he has done in the last two years for Indian cricket. His absence gives Bangladesh a chance to capitalize,” Kayes told PTI Videos.
‘Shami’s inclusion crucial’
Mohammed Shami’s return would however boost India as he is a top performer and would lead the pace attack that includes Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh.
Shami returned to the squad in the England series after being on the sidelines with a year for an ankle injury for which he needed surgery.
“Shami’s inclusion is big. He may be struggling a bit with fitness right now, but if he finds his rhythm, he will be a big threat for Bangladesh,” Kayes said.
Bangladesh have left out former skipper all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and veteran batter Litton Das, whose absence would obviously be felt.
“I definitely miss Shakib because he is a very good player. His impact on any match is immense. At the moment, Bangladesh is struggling. They are struggling because if Shakib is not playing, Bangladesh might play an additional spinner. That’s the main problem.
“Litton’s form was a big concern for the team. But in the last few BPL matches, he did score some runs. However, Soumya Sarkar and Tanzid Tamim have performed better, and I think the team is in good shape in that department,” Kayes added.
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy with a back injury sustained in the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Australia. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
