Jasprit Bumrah, India's top pacer, might miss the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup after a back injury already forced him out of the Asia Cup. He is currently working through a rehab program at the NCA in Bengaluru. This current struggle is a repeat of a serious back problem he faced in 2019, which significantly disrupted his career. Experts fear that since the injury has resurfaced, regaining full fitness might take longer than expected. This has left the BCCI and selectors anxious, especially with only a month remaining before the World Cup squad is finalized.
According to a senior BCCI official, Bumrah's back condition is a cause for concern. The 28-year-old is currently in rehabilitation and is being provided with the best available medical expertise. The official emphasized that the recurring nature of the injury is what makes this situation so precarious. Coming just two months before the T20 World Cup, the timing couldn't be worse. The medical team continues to monitor his status closely.
As one of the world's elite bowlers, Bumrah requires very careful workload management. He has previously spent extensive time away from the game dealing with these persistent back problems. Many experts suggest that his unique bowling action places excessive strain on his lower back, leading to these recurring injuries. With the T20 World Cup fast approaching, his absence would be a significant loss for India.
Should Bumrah be unable to play, India will likely lean on a bowling attack featuring Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, and either Arshdeep Singh or Avesh Khan. While Bhuvneshwar and Harshal excel at the death overs, India lacks a strike bowler like Bumrah for the early stages of the game. In his absence, selectors will likely turn to Mohammed Shami, who is highly effective during the powerplay.
A selection committee member pointed out that Shami's age means his workload must also be managed carefully. However, he acknowledged that if India is missing two of its top pacers, they need a reliable veteran who understands Australian conditions. Shami's experience in those environments would be a massive asset, though a final decision on his inclusion will be made later.