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the ICC Champions Trophy 2025which is scheduled to start in February, is just around the corner, and India is yet to announce their squad. The delay led to widespread speculation among fans and experts, especially about the star pacer’s fitness. Jasprit Bumrah. Notably, Bumrah faced difficulties in the previous Test of India’s recent tour of Australia where he did not bowl enough and was rested for the upcoming T20I leg against England as well.
The delay in announcing the squad has been interpreted by some as a strategic move by the selectors, possibly to gauge Bumrah’s fitness level before making a final decision. However, this uncertainty only heightens the anticipation and worries surrounding India’s campaign in the tournament. Some reports even suggested that the star pacer might miss the initial games in Dubai.
Jasprit Bumrah’s loss: A major blow to India’s chances
Bumrah’s importance to India’s bowling unit cannot be overstated. With his deadly yorkers, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to bowl under pressure, Bumrah is considered one of the best pacers in world cricket. His absence will not only create a void in India’s bowling attack but also disrupt the balance of the team.
Meanwhile, former Indian captain Kris Srikanth highlighted the magnitude of Bumrah’s untapped potential, noting that without the Ahmedabad-born cricketer, India would not be a better side.
“This is not good news for Jasprit Bumrah himself. He has carried the team’s bowling on his shoulders for years. Without Bumrah, it is as good as we are without him. Without him, our bowling is lacking. on the X-factor,” said Srikkanth on his YouTube channel.
also READ: Jasprit Bumrah responds to claims of ‘advised bed rest at home’ for Champions Trophy participation
Kris Srikkanth advocated for the inclusion of Bhuvneshwar Kumar
To address the potential gap left by Bumrah, Srikkanth suggested the inclusion of veteran seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the squad. The former selector and captain observed that Bhuvneshwar’s experience and skills make him an ideal candidate to bolster the team’s pace attack.
“Bhuvneshwar Kumar should be in India’s ODI squad for the Champions Trophy. He is very experienced,” Srikkanth stated, stressing that Bhuvneshwar has performed well in domestic cricket and has more to offer in the international arena.
Srikkanth highlighted Bhuvneshwar’s potential value to the Indian team by comparing his status to Karun Nairstressing that if Nair can return, there is no reason why Bhuvneshwar shouldn’t. He pointed out that Bhuvneshwar’s experience and skills make him a reliable option who can deliver under pressure at crucial moments.
“If you can bring back someone like Karun Nair, then why not Bhuvi? He plays domestic cricket and bowls very well. In the T20 World Cup 2022, apart from the semi-final, he will be good. Can you bring him to the setup, and he delivers when it matters,” added Srikkanth.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: A wealth of experience to bank on
Notably, Bhuvneshwar, who is a mainstay in India’s bowling lineup, is renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways and maintain tight lines. While he last played an ODI in 2022 and has not featured in List-A cricket for two years, his past performances at ICC events highlight his ability to thrive under pressure.
During the T20 World Cup 2022, Bhuvneshwar was one of India’s most economical bowlers, often keeping the opposition batters in check during the powerplay overs. His ability to control the game at key moments can be a valuable asset, especially in conditions where swing and seam play an important role.
Moreover, Bhuvneshwar’s wealth of experience can benefit India’s young bowlers, giving them guidance and support in tough situations. His presence will not only strengthen the bowling attack but also bring calmness and reliability to the team.
