New Delhi: A recent report on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s injury has left the Indian fans worried. According to a Times Of India (TOI) report, Bumrah, who is recovering from a back injury, will need a miracle to be fit in time for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The Indian speedster sustained the injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and could not bowl in the second innings of the fifth Test in Sydney, where India suffered a six-wicket defeat and lost the series 1-3.
Rested for the ongoing white-ball home series against England, Bumrah was expected to be fit for the ICC Champions Trophy starting on February 19 in Pakistan but the latest development has put a big question mark on his comeback.
Can Bumrah recover in time?
The report reveals Bumrah has been consulting Dr Rowan Schouten, a renowned orthopaedic surgeon in New Zealand and is likely to visit New Zealand for further treatment ahead of the Champions Trophy. Schouten will assess his condition through the reports and the feedback will decide his travel plans to New Zealand.
With Bumrah facing a race against time to get fully fit for the marquee tournament, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) wants to have a backup plan.
Bumrah was picked in India’s Champions Trophy squad and for the third ODI against England on February 12 in Ahmedabad despite doubts over his fitness. With his availability in question, BCCI could name a replacement before the final date for changes to the Champions Trophy squad on February 11.
Players who can be picked in India’s Champions Trophy squad if Bumrah is unfit
Mohammed Siraj
The Hyderabad pacer, who was subbed by the selectors for the Champions Trophy, might find a lucky break if Bumrah is ruled out due to injury. While Siraj’s form has come under the scanner his performances in the 50-over format and his experience at ICC events may work in his favour.
Harshit Rana
Rana, who recently made his Test debut on the Australia tour, is another potential candidate to replace Bumrah. The Delhi pacer was picked for the England ODI series and has a golden chance to impress the selectors ahead of the Champions Trophy. Rana’s pace, variations and accuracy can prove useful for India on Dubai tracks.
Prasidh Krishna
Karnataka’s Prasidh Krishna is another option for the team management to consider for the CT. The tall pacer featured in the whites in the final Test of the BGT against Australia before turning up the heat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Krishna, who was also part of the ODI World Cup 2023 squad, can prove to be an X-Factor for the Men In Blue due to his extra pace.
Jasprit Bumrah injury update: Rested for the ongoing white-ball home series against England, Bumrah was expected to be fit for the ICC Champions Trophy starting on February 19 in Pakistan. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
