Jasprit Bumrah, India’s star pacer and stand-in captain, faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the second innings of the ongoing fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
On Day 2 of the match, Bumrah experienced a back spasm that forced him to leave the field after bowling just one over in the second session.
Injury Details
Bumrah’s injury scare occurred shortly after he had bowled effectively in the first innings, where he took two wickets for 33 runs across ten overs.
His sudden departure raised alarms among fans and the Indian team, prompting immediate medical attention.
Reports indicate that he was taken to a nearby hospital for precautionary scans to assess the severity of his condition.
Prasidh Krishna, a teammate, later confirmed that Bumrah is dealing with a back spasm.
He stated, “The medical team is monitoring him, so let’s see,” indicating that while Bumrah’s condition is being closely observed, there remains hope for his return.
Current Status and Expectations
Bumrah has been cleared to bat in the second innings; however, a final decision on whether he will bowl will depend on how he feels on the morning of Day 3.
Sources suggest that while there is optimism regarding his ability to bat, the medical team will make a call on his bowling based on his recovery progress overnight.
The Indian team managed to maintain a competitive edge despite Bumrah’s absence from the field.
They ended Day 2 with a score of 141 for 6, leading by 145 runs overall after bowling Australia out for 181 in their first innings.
In Bumrah’s absence, other bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna stepped up to fill the void effectively.
Implications for India
Bumrah’s presence is crucial for India as he has been their standout bowler throughout the series, leading with 32 wickets at an impressive average.
His potential absence in the second innings could significantly impact India’s strategy against Australia, who are looking to capitalize on any weakness in India’s bowling attack.