Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, opened up about the availability of Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming Champions Trophy, scheduled to be played in Pakistan and Dubai. Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah would not be ready in time for the upcoming ODI series against England at home.
Bumrah is dealing with a back spasm he developed during the five-match Test series against Australia. The right-arm fast bowler has been included in the squad for the upcoming eight-team ICC tournament. However, Bumrah will miss the T20I series against England and the following 50-over matches.
We Are Waiting on Jasprit Bumrah’s Fitness – Ajit Agarkar
Speaking at the press conference, Ajit Agarkar confirmed that the selection committee is awaiting Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness status. He also mentioned that Harshit Rana will be part of the squad for the ODIs against England.
“We are waiting on Bumrah’s fitness and Harshit Rana will be part of England ODIs. Bumrah will not be able to be ready for two ODIs vs England, we are waiting for his status,” Agarkar told reporters.
“Bumrah was asked to offload for five weeks, BCCI will put something out from the medical team. Hopefully he is okay after first week of February.”
Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh Among Pacers in Champions Trophy Squad
Mohammad Siraj was left out of India’s squad for the Champions Trophy, while Arshdeep Singh was included. Bumrah and Siraj were last seen during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but Shami will make his return to India’s squad for the five-match T20I series against England after a year-long absence.
Arshdeep Singh, who has played eight ODIs, last featured in a 50-over match against South Africa in December 2023. Jasprit Bumrah, who was named Player of the Series in the BGT after taking 32 wickets, played a vital role in the 2024 T20 World Cup win, helping the team claim its first ICC trophy in 11 years.
We Are Not Sure About Jasprit Bumrah – Rohit Sharma Explains Mohammed Siraj’s Snub
Rohit Sharma explained the decision to leave Mohammed Siraj out of India’s squad, stating that the team was uncertain about Jasprit Bumrah’s availability. Arshdeep Singh was selected for his ability to bowl in the death overs.
“We are not sure about Bumrah, whether he was going to play or not. So, we thought we wanted someone who can bowl with the new ball and at the backend. So we picked Arshdeep to bowl at the backend. Shami, we all saw what he can do with the new ball,” Rohit said.
“Siraj, his effectiveness comes down when he is not bowling with the new ball. It’s an unfortunate thing that he has to miss out. But, we had no option get the guys who can perform a certain role. I personally feel we have guys who can bowl with the new ball, bowl in the middle and bowl at the backend.”
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