Jasprit Bumrah is poised for potential inclusion in India’s Champions Trophy squad, provided he regains full fitness before the tournament, which begins on February 19.
Reports indicate that Bumrah’s inability to bowl on the fifth day of the Sydney Test stemmed from a stress-related injury. While initial tests did not confirm a stress fracture, his discomfort is believed to be linked to the extensive workload during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he bowled 151.2 overs across nine innings, claiming 32 wickets at an impressive average of 13.06.
On medical advice, the BCCI has mandated at least five weeks of rest for Bumrah following the Sydney Test, which concluded on January 5. After this period, he will undergo further scans to assess his recovery. If cleared, Bumrah’s match readiness could be evaluated in the final ODI against England on February 12, just days before the ICC’s February 11 deadline for finalizing Champions Trophy squads.
India’s selection committee plans to name Bumrah in the 15-man squad, with his inclusion conditional on passing the fitness test. India will play three ODIs against England on February 6, 9, and 12, marking their first ODI series since touring Sri Lanka in August 2024.
In the Champions Trophy, India, placed in Group A, will face Bangladesh on February 20, Pakistan on February 23, and New Zealand on March 2. All of India’s matches will take place in Dubai, as their government has prohibited travel to Pakistan.
