Jasprit Bumrah’s injury seems to be more severe than previously thought and his absence from cricket could be longer than anticipated.
Reports suggest that the star Indian fast bowler might not be available for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) which is scheduled to start in a month’s time and run through April and May.
There are also doubts about his availability for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June, if India qualifies.
Sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL circles have indicated that Bumrah, who has been out of action for almost five months, has not been feeling comfortable and is likely to have an extended break.
According to insiders, the Indian team is hoping to have him fit for the World Cup in October-November, and possibly for the Asia Cup, wherever it is held.
Bumrah last played for India in a T20I against Australia on September 25 last year. Cricbuzz had recently reported that he was not cleared by the National Cricket Academy (NCA) authorities in Bengaluru for the three ODIs against Australia in March. However, it appears that things have not progressed as planned and the NCA is not in a hurry to rush him back into action.
Initially, it was thought that Bumrah could make a return for the IPL as he would only have to bowl four overs in a game, and it would allow him to slowly build up his workload. However, it now seems that his recovery will take longer.
The BCCI, NCA, and Indian team management are now working on a carefully planned program for his return.
