Jasprit Bumrah's fitness assessment completed, BCCI awaits for medical report
What's the story
Jasprit Bumrah's fitness assessment has been completed at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, with a detailed medical report expected within the next 24 hours. As per a report in The Times of India, the result of this assessment will decide his availability for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. Meanwhile, in his absence, Varun Chakaravarthy has replaced him in the ODI squad for the England series. Here's more.
Recovery discussions
Bumrah to discuss recovery plan with BCCI medical team
Bumrah is likely to stay in Bengaluru for talks with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team. These discussions will revolve around formulating a recovery plan after assessment. Once the medical team arrives at their recommendations, they will be relayed to the Indian cricket team management for further action.
Expert consultation
New Zealand's Dr. Rowan Schouten may review Bumrah's medical report
The medical report could also be examined by New Zealand's Dr. Rowan Schouten, who was part of Bumrah's first scan in January. Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team management is waiting for this report to decide on Bumrah's participation in the Champions Trophy. Captain Rohit Sharma had earlier said clarity on the matter would come after the scans were conducted.
Replacement uncertainty
Bumrah's replacement in Champions Trophy squad yet to be decided
After a strenuous Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Bumrah has been on a break from cricket since the Sydney Test where he didn't bowl in the second innings. He was advised to rest for five weeks due to back swelling and arrived in Bengaluru on February 2. If Bumrah stays unavailable for selection, it's unclear if the selectors will go for Chakaravarthy's spin or Harshit Rana's pace as his replacement.
Fitness concerns
Fitness concerns loom over India's pace attack ahead of CT
As the 2025 Champions Trophy draws closer, Team India is dealing with fitness issues among its pacers. The uncertainty over Bumrah's return and Mohammed Shami's hot-and-cold performances have raised eyebrows. Additionally, Shami's form since his return has been inconsistent, raising concerns regarding his readiness for the tournament. Additionally, India has named just three pacers, Bumrah, Shami, and Arshdeep Singh in their Champions Trophy squad.
Chances
Ravi Shastri predicts India's prospects amidst Bumrah's potential absence
Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri had recently raised concerns about India's chances in the upcoming Champions Trophy as a result of Bumrah's injury. He believes that without Bumrah, India's chances of winning could drop by as much as 30%. "Bumrah not fit will reduce India's chances [of winning the Champions Trophy] by 30%, literally by 30-35%," Shastri told on the The ICC Review. Additionally, Shastri also warned India against rushing Bumrah's return for the Champions Trophy.