The Indian team has lost its primary fast bowling weapon, Jasprit Bumrah, to a back stress fracture, ruling him out of the T20 World Cup. This news is a devastating hit to India's ambitions of dominating the ICC event. The problem became evident on Wednesday when Bumrah felt pain in his back during practice, making him unavailable for the first T20I match against South Africa.
The team's injury woes continue, as Ravindra Jadeja is also unavailable while recovering from a knee operation. A senior source within the BCCI has confirmed that Bumrah's participation in the World T20 is impossible. The official explained that the 28-year-old is dealing with a significant back injury—specifically a stress fracture—which likely means he will be away from the game for about half a year.
Back injuries have become a recurring problem for the seamer; he previously missed the 2022 Asia Cup due to the same condition. Despite spending time in rehabilitation at the NCA in Bengaluru to get back into playing shape, the issue persisted. Fortunately, it is currently believed that the injury can be managed without surgical intervention.
To fill the void left by Bumrah, India will likely turn to either Deepak Chahar or Mohammed Shami, both of whom are already listed as standby players for the tournament. Additionally, the selection committee is considering Mohammed Siraj, who has been gaining experience playing County cricket for Warwickshire.