India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy have been dealt a significant blow, as fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to feature in the group stages due to a back injury. The injury, diagnosed as back inflammation, occurred during the fifth Border-Gavaskar Trophy test match, where Bumrah struggled to bowl effectively.
Bumrah has been advised to report to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for close monitoring and rehabilitation. He has also been ruled out of India’s upcoming series against England, with selectors preferring to give him sufficient time for recovery.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly requested an extension to submit the final squad for the Champions Trophy, which is due today, and plans to finalize the squad closer to the tournament after assessing Bumrah’s fitness.
Bumrah, considered a key player for India, is expected to recover by early March, with the team’s final group match against New Zealand scheduled for March 2 in Dubai. India’s reliance on Bumrah’s experience and skill in high-pressure games makes his potential absence a worrying factor for the team.
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke recently hailed Bumrah as the best fast bowler across all formats, comparing him to bowling legends like Curtly Ambrose and Glenn McGrath. Clarke praised Bumrah’s versatility, stating that his adaptability to various conditions makes him an exceptional bowler for any format or situation.
With Bumrah’s fitness still uncertain, India’s Champions Trophy plans hang in the balance as they await a final assessment of his recovery.
