Jasprit Bumrah, the ace fast bowler for Mumbai Indians (MI), is facing a setback in his upcoming IPL 2025 matches due to a lingering back injury. Since January, Bumrah has been sidelined, recuperating from a stress-related injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Sydney on January 4. This injury has caused him to miss out on crucial matches, including the recent Champions Trophy where India emerged victorious.
As Bumrah continues his recovery journey, it has been revealed that he is unlikely to join the MI squad for the initial IPL 2025 matches. The medical team at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru is closely monitoring his progress, with a potential return date set for early April. This news comes as a blow to fans eagerly anticipating Bumrah’s fiery deliveries on the cricket field.
Challenges and Recovery
The road to recovery for Bumrah has been marked by challenges and setbacks. Following his surgery in March 2023, this recent back injury has raised concerns about the impact on his career longevity. Former New Zealand fast bowler and MI’s bowling coach, Shane Bond, has expressed worries about the recurrence of such injuries, emphasizing the need for careful management of Bumrah’s workload to prevent any long-term consequences.
The BCCI medical team, selectors, and coaching staff are working together to strike a balance between Bumrah’s unique bowling action and his physical well-being. With the upcoming IPL matches and a hectic schedule ahead, including India’s tour to England for a five-Test series, the focus is on ensuring Bumrah’s fitness and preventing any further injuries that could jeopardize his career.
Impact on IPL Schedule
MI’s initial IPL 2025 fixtures will see them take on challenging opponents in away matches. Starting their campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Chennai on March 23, followed by a clash with Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad on March 29, MI faces a tough start to the season. With Bumrah’s absence felt keenly in the bowling lineup, the team will need to regroup and adapt to the situation to maintain their competitive edge.
As MI gears up for their first home match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 31, the pressure is on to deliver strong performances despite missing their key player. With matches against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow on April 4 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at home on April 7, MI will need to come together as a cohesive unit to overcome the challenges posed by Bumrah’s absence.
The uncertainty surrounding Bumrah’s return date and the potential impact on MI’s performance in the upcoming matches adds an element of unpredictability to the IPL 2025 season. Fans, teammates, and coaching staff alike are eagerly awaiting Bumrah’s recovery and his eventual return to the field, hoping for a swift and successful comeback that will bolster MI’s chances in the tournament.
