Jasprit Bumrah delivers the biggest setback for team India amidst ICC Champions Trophy uncertainty

Team India pacer Jasprit Bumrah's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains uncertain as he continues to recover from his injury. Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be included in India's provisional squad, but his availability will depend on medical clearance and his ability to bowl without pain.

Bumrah suffered back spasms during the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in Sydney. He left the field and was rushed to the hospital for scans. The pacer could not bowl in the second innings. The BCCI's medical team has yet to release an official statement on the severity of his injury.

Jasprit Bumrah Consults New Zealand Surgeon After Back Spasms

Jasprit Bumrah consulted New Zealand orthopedic surgeon Dr. Rowan Schouten, who previously operated on him for a back injury in 2023, according to a report by Hindustan Times. The surgeon is reportedly in communication with the BCCI's medical team, and selectors are expected to be informed.

"The surgeon is in touch with BCCI’s medical team and the selectors are expected to be informed," read the report.

Jasprit Bumrah Included in Provisional Squad for Champions

The report added that Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss most of the white-ball series against England, which begins on January 22 with five T20Is and three ODIs. This decision comes to manage workload before the upcoming Champions Trophy, as selectors are prioritizing his recovery from a back injury.

His availability for the event remains uncertain, as his participation hinges on obtaining medical clearance. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to include him in the provisional squad, due for submission by January 12 according to ICC rules, but his final inclusion will depend on his fitness.

"It was reported that the India star will be rested for the white-ball home series against England, which begins on January 22"

"While Bumrah will be picked in the provisional squad for the Champions Trophy, which has to be submitted latest by January 12 according to the ICC rule, his participation will be subject to getting a medical clearance," Hindustan Times added.

Veteran opener Rohit Sharma, who helped India end their ICC trophy drought during the T20 World Cup 2024, is expected to lead the team, with Bumrah set to be vice-captain, despite injury concerns.

Selectors' Focus on Mohammed Shami's International Return

Mohammed Shami is expected to return to India's squad for the ODI series against England after recovering from heel surgery in 2024. He had missed much of the previous year due to an injury from the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Shami returned to competitive action in October, and selectors are keen to assess his fitness in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy knockout matches, where he is representing Bengal. If Shami impresses the selectors, he could be included in the ODI series against England and considered for the Champions Trophy.

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