As the anticipation builds for IPL 2025, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the participation of some key Indian players due to injury concerns.
These potential absences could significantly impact the strategies and team compositions of their respective franchises.
Here’s a detailed look at three prominent Indian cricketers who are facing a race against time to recover from injuries and their chances of featuring in the upcoming IPL season:
Virat Kohli:
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans are holding their breath as news circulates regarding Virat Kohli’s fitness.
The former Indian captain was recently seen with a strapped knee, raising concerns about a potential knee injury.
This issue caused him to miss the first ODI against England, further fueling speculation about his availability for the start of IPL 2025.
Prior to the knee issue, Kohli was also sidelined from a Ranji Trophy encounter in January due to a neck injury.
These recurring injury concerns raise questions about his overall fitness and ability to withstand the rigors of a long IPL season.
Jasprit Bumrah:
Mumbai Indians (MI), the five-time IPL champions, are sweating over the fitness of their premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah.
The experienced pacer played a crucial role in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, showcasing his world-class skills.
However, a back swelling sidelined him from the Sydney Test, raising alarm bells about his long-term fitness.
Recent reports suggest that Bumrah hasn’t fully recovered and might also miss the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
This prolonged absence from competitive cricket indicates the severity of the back issue and raises serious doubts about his participation in IPL 2025.
Sanju Samson:
The Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) captain sustained a finger injury that prevented him from keeping wickets in the fifth T20I between India and England. Samson was hit on the index finger of his right hand.
It was reported that Samson had fractured his finger and would require four to six weeks for recovery.
He has returned to his home base and will only start training after completing his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
Because the IPL 2025 starts on March 21st, Samson is racing against time to get fully fit, and it is possible he may miss a major portion of the IPL due to injury.