The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will start on February 12, but fans of Indian cricket might not see Jasprit Bumrah in action during the group stage matches. Bumrah, one of India’s most reliable and skilled bowlers, is recovering from an injury he suffered during the final and Pink Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Bumrah’s Injury and Current Condition
Jasprit Bumrah sustained his injury while leading the Indian team in the final match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the SCG. The injury prevented him from bowling in the second innings, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Reports from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) indicate that Bumrah’s injury does not involve a fracture but swelling in his back. To recover fully, he has been sent to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for a three-week rehabilitation program.
A BCCI source explained, “He doesn’t have a fracture but has swelling on his back. After his rehabilitation, he will also need to play one or two practice matches to prove his fitness before returning to competitive cricket.”
Selection Plans for the Champions Trophy
The BCCI and selectors are considering including Bumrah in the provisional squad for the tournament. This approach will allow them to make adjustments to the team lineup up to a week before the tournament begins. If Bumrah recovers in time, he might participate in the later stages of the competition.
India’s group stage matches are as follows:
- February 20: Against Bangladesh
- February 23: Against Pakistan
- March 2: Against New Zealand
The extended gap between the matches against Pakistan and New Zealand provides Bumrah additional recovery time. If he regains fitness, there is a possibility of seeing him play in the game against New Zealand.
Focus on Long-Term Fitness
The BCCI has emphasized that long-term fitness is their top priority for Bumrah. They are taking a cautious approach, ensuring he is not rushed back into action. His return will only be considered once he proves his fitness in match situations.
Even if Bumrah misses the group stage, his presence in the tournament’s later stages could be crucial for India’s success.
India’s Strategy Without Bumrah
Although Bumrah is a key player, the Indian team has a talented pool of bowlers who are capable of stepping up in his absence. The team management will rely on these players to deliver in the group stage matches and maintain India’s competitive edge.
While Bumrah’s absence is a setback, it also serves as an opportunity for other bowlers to showcase their skills on the big stage.
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