Bumrah’s Fitness to be Tested in Third ODI Against England
India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has been named in India’s 15-man squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy. However, his inclusion is subject to fitness, and his match readiness will be put to the test in the third ODI against England on February 12 in Ahmedabad. The selectors and team management are optimistic that Bumrah will be fit in time for the prestigious tournament.
Concerns Over Bumrah’s Fitness
Bumrah’s fitness has been a topic of discussion after he suffered back spasms during the Sydney Test, which prevented him from bowling on the final day. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, revealed that BCCI’s medical team deemed Bumrah unfit for the first two ODIs against England on February 6 and February 9. The asterisk against Bumrah’s name in the Champions Trophy squad signifies the uncertainty surrounding his availability.
Delhi and India fast bowler Harshit Rana has been included in the squad for the England series as cover for Bumrah. Despite making his Test debut in Australia, Rana is yet to feature in ODIs and T20Is, adding an element of unpredictability to the team’s composition.
Stress-Related Injury
It has been learned that Bumrah’s injury is stress-related, although initial tests did not reveal a stress fracture in his back. The taxing workload during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia took a toll on Bumrah, prompting the BCCI to grant him a five-week rest period. This break will be followed by additional medical assessments to determine his readiness to return to action.
Hope for Bumrah’s Recovery
Agarkar expressed optimism about Bumrah’s recovery, citing a scheduled scan in early February to assess his condition. The selectors are hopeful that Bumrah will regain full fitness in time for the Champions Trophy, starting on February 19. However, contingency plans are being considered in case Bumrah is unable to participate.
As India gears up to face England in a series of ODIs before the Champions Trophy, Bumrah’s availability remains a crucial factor in the team’s preparations. The upcoming matches will serve as a litmus test for Bumrah’s fitness and readiness to represent India on the international stage once again. Only time will tell if the star fast bowler can overcome his injury woes and make a triumphant return to the field.
Nagraj Gollapudi, news editor at ESPNcricinfo, continues to monitor developments surrounding Bumrah’s fitness and will provide updates as the situation unfolds.
