 "Jasprit Bumrah reacts during the 2023 ODI World Cup. Image: Reuters")
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s star pacer, is currently undergoing a thorough medical assessment at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The results of his scans and evaluations will be crucial in determining his participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with a detailed medical report expected within the next 24 hours.
Bumrah’s availability for the Champions Trophy to be confirmed shortly
Bumrah has been in Bengaluru since 2 February, following a period of rest after experiencing swelling in his back. The pacer has been sidelined since the Sydney Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he did not bowl in the second innings. After the strenuous series, Bumrah was advised to take a five-week break to recover fully. Now, the NCA medical team is carefully monitoring his condition to determine the extent of his injury and the appropriate course of action moving forward.
According to the Times of India, once the medical team at the NCA completes their assessment, they will communicate their findings to the Indian team management. Bumrah’s injury update could also involve input from Dr. Rowan Schouten, a renowned medical expert from New Zealand, who was consulted previously when Bumrah underwent his first scan in Australia last month.
The deadline for finalizing India’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 is fast approaching , and the Indian team management is awaiting the medical report to make a final decision on Bumrah’s availability. Prior to the Nagpur ODI against England, India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, mentioned that the team would get clarity on Bumrah’s situation once the scan results are submitted.
Bumrah’s potential absence has led to questions about who might replace him in the squad if he is unable to recover in time. In his place, Varun Chakaravarthy was included in the ODI squad against England , bringing his mystery spin into the mix. However, selectors could also look at the pace options available, such as Harshit Rana, should Bumrah miss out on the Champions Trophy.
The upcoming edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to kick off on 19 February. India will play its opening game against Bangladesh on 20 February.