Team India are sweating over fitness of Jasprit Bumrah as the star pacer faces race against time to be fit for the ICC tournament. The pacer suffered back issues during the Sydney Test and could not bowl during the second innings. He was rushed to the hospital from the stadium for scans with BCCI's medical team yet to make an official statement on the grade of the injury
In the latest update on Bumrah's injury, Hindustan Times reported that the pacer consulted New Zealand orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Rowan Schouten, who operated back in 2023, where he had a back injury. The report further stated that the surgeon is in touch with BCCI’s medical team and the selectors are expected to be informed
Will Bumrah take part in Champions trophy?
The Ajit Agarkar led selection committee is likely to pick 15 member squad for the Champions Trophy this weekend. However, there are lot of questions over Bumrah's participation. The pacer IS is likely to be named in the provisional squad for the ICC tournament, but will only play if "pain-free after returning to bowling."
The pacer could miss majority of the white-ball series against England, beginning with the T20I leg on January 22. With the Champions Trophy also looming, the selectors are likely to preserve the right-arm speedster for the eight-team tournament, allowing him enough time to recover from the back injury, given his presence will be vital.
When will BCCI announce Champions Trophy squad?
The ICC has set deadline for the submitting the final squad for the Champions Trophy on January 12. All eyes will be on Mohammed Shami's international return. The veteran bowler returned to competitive action in October last year after spending a year on the sidelines owing to an injury incurred during the 2023 ODI World Cup.Rohit is expected to lead the side in the competition, and Bumrah is reportedly going to be his vice-captain unless there are any injury concerns.
