Team India and Mumbai Indians’ star pacer Jasprit Bumrah has returned to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He is there to confirm his fitness for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
According to Cricbuzz, the 31-year-old is seeking clearance on whether he can play the tournament fully or partially.
Bumrah has been out of action since the fifth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test against Australia in Sydney. During his first visit to the NCA, he experienced pain and discomfort while bowling. The NCA then advised him to follow a set of exercises and return for further assessment. However, reports suggest that there is hope regarding his recovery.
Jasprit Bumrah might miss a few games of action for Mumbai Indians
The pacer will bowl again at the NCA in this second stint. He will receive clearance to play if he feels no pain or discomfort. However, it may take at least another week before he is fit to play. Mumbai Indians are likely to miss his services for their first few games.
Mumbai Indians coach Mahela Jayawardene reflected on Bumrah’s situation in a press conference on March 19. The former Sri Lankan skipper admitted that Bumrah’s absence is a big loss, but he remains hopeful about his return.
Jayawardene said, “He just started that progress. We have to wait and see what their feedback is on him. At the moment, everything is going well, but we will check his progress daily. He is in good spirits and hopefully, he can join the team sooner. Obviously, not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and has been a fantastic pro for us for many years.”
With Bumrah unavailable for the first few games, Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar are expected to take charge of the new ball for Mumbai Indians.
Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 23 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.