Team India Faces Setback: Jasprit Bumrah to Miss Champions Trophy Group Matches

Team India suffered a major setback ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, with star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the tournament’s group stage matches due to a back injury. According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has advised Bumrah to undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.

The Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 19 in Pakistan, with matches scheduled to be held across Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore. However, the highly anticipated India-Pakistan matches will take place in Dubai. Eight top teams will participate in this prestigious tournament.

On Thursday, the Indian selectors convened in Mumbai to finalize the squad for the upcoming T20I series against England. During the meeting, an update on Bumrah’s fitness was reportedly shared. Although the official announcement of India’s Champions Trophy squad was expected today, it has been delayed.

The selectors are reportedly deliberating on whether to include Bumrah in the 15-member squad or list him as a reserve player. Meanwhile, the BCCI has submitted a preliminary squad to the International Cricket Council (ICC), with a window open until February 12 for any changes to the team. This allows the selectors some time to assess Bumrah’s recovery before making a final decision. The BCCI remains hopeful that Bumrah will regain full fitness by early March.

India’s last group stage match in the Champions Trophy is scheduled against New Zealand on March 2. Before that, India will face Bangladesh on February 20 and arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23.