New Delhi: A recent update regarding Indian cricket team’s prominent fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has surprised many cricket enthusiasts. Currently, he is sidelined from the team due to a back injury, raising concerns about his participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy. The injury occurred during the fifth Test match of the India-Australia series. Despite ongoing fitness issues, Bumrah has been named in the Indian squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, reports suggest that his ability to play may be in doubt.
A recent report from the Times of India indicates that Jasprit Bumrah’s involvement in the upcoming eight-team ICC tournament, set to take place from February 19 to March 9, is uncertain. The 31-year-old fast bowler’s back injury will be assessed by New Zealand orthopedic surgeon Dr. Rowan Schouten. Bumrah’s participation in the Champions Trophy will hinge on the findings of this evaluation and the doctor’s recommendations. Notably, Bumrah received treatment for his back in 2022 and was also unable to compete in the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia that same year.
The report indicates that the BCCI is considering a replacement for Bumrah, as his return to fitness appears unlikely in time. During the team announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar mentioned that Bumrah might participate in the third ODI against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 12, but there are low expectations regarding his availability.
A BCCI source told TOI, “The BCCI medical team is in touch with Schouten in New Zealand. The board had also planned Bumrah’s trip to New Zealand, but that has not happened yet. The selectors know that it would be a miracle if Bumrah becomes 100 per cent fit in the given time,”