India captain Rohit Sharma has addressed concerns surrounding Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness, stating that the team is awaiting scan reports to determine his availability for the third ODI against England and the subsequent Champions Trophy 2025.
Bumrah, who suffered back spasms during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney in January, has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
Sharma clarified that Bumrah’s name was initially included in the ODI squad for the England series, with his participation dependent on his fitness for the third match in Ahmedabad.
However, Bumrah was quietly removed from the updated squad, which included spinner Varun Chakravarthy, sparking speculation about his condition.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the first ODI against England in Nagpur, Rohit stated, “Jasprit, obviously we’re waiting on some update about his scan, which is due to happen in the next few days”.
He added that the scan results would provide more clarity on his participation in the last ODI. While Sharma did not rule out Bumrah for the final England ODI, the situation remains uncertain. The team management is awaiting updates on his medical assessment before making a final decision.
Impact of Bumrah’s Potential Absence
Former skipper Ravi Shastri believes that Bumrah’s absence would significantly weaken India’s chances of winning the Champions Trophy, estimating a 30-35% reduction in their likelihood of success.
Shastri emphasized Bumrah’s importance in the death overs and highlighted the difference a fully fit Bumrah would make.
Options for India
With Bumrah’s fitness uncertain, India may need to consider alternative options. Mohammed Shami has returned to the side after a long absence, but his form is still a concern.
Arshdeep Singh is another frontline pacer who is currently in good shape. The selectors will have to make a crucial decision before the deadline for changes to the squad on February 12.
Other Key Decisions for India
Besides Bumrah’s fitness, India also needs to decide whether to have KL Rahul as the wicketkeeper-batter at No. 5 or to include a left-handed option like Rishabh Pant2. Rohit hinted at maintaining continuity with Rahul, who performed well in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
As the Champions Trophy approaches, India faces crucial decisions regarding team composition and player fitness.
The scan results for Jasprit Bumrah will be pivotal in determining India’s strategy for the upcoming tournament.
