Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 12, 2025, 02:20 PM
Champions Trophy: As the date of Champions Trophy 2025 is approaching, the concerns of the Indian cricket team are increasing. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet officially announced the team for the tournament. The last date for team announcement for the Champions Trophy has been fixed as January 12, but meanwhile the biggest concern is about the fitness of fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah.Bumrah's fitness became a cause of concernJasprit Bumrah was injured on the Australia tour and since then there has been a lot of speculation about his fitness. According to the latest news, Bumrah's back injury has not fully healed. The Indian Express report states that it seems difficult for Bumrah to play in all the group stage matches.Bumrah has been asked to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. His fitness and recovery process will be closely monitored at the NCA. Although according to initial reports, Bumrah does not have a fracture, but there is swelling in his back, which may take time for his return.Team India sought timeThe BCCI has requested the ICC to extend the deadline for team announcement for the Champions Trophy. The team management was hoping that Bumrah would be fit for the group stage matches, but now it seems that his return may be delayed further.Will Bumrah not be able to play in the group stage?The Champions Trophy 2025 will begin on February 19, in which the top eight ODI teams in the world will participate. The Indian team's first match will be against Bangladesh in Karachi on February 20. After this, the big match against arch-rival Pakistan will be played in Rawalpindi on February 23. India's third group match will be against New Zealand in Dubai on March 2.According to reports, due to Bumrah's injury, his playing in these three group matches is doubtful. BCCI sources said that if his fitness improves, he may be available for the knockout stage. But in case he is out in the group stage, Team India will have to make a new strategy.Rehab program will run in NCABumrah will soon be included in the three-week rehab program at the NCA. According to BCCI sources, his recovery process will be constantly monitored. It will be ensured that he can return to the field as soon as possible.Although no specific date has been fixed for Bumrah's return, the BCCI hopes that he will be fully fit by the first week of March.Impact on Indian bowling attackIf Bumrah does not play in the group stage of the Champions Trophy, it can have a big impact on the bowling of the Indian team. Without Bumrah, the edge of the Indian bowling attack may weaken. In such a situation, bowlers like Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umran Malik will have additional responsibility.Options in the absence of BumrahTeam India has some options in the absence of Bumrah. Mohammed Shami and Siraj have performed well in recent times. Apart from this, young fast bowler Umran Malik can trouble the opposition teams with his fast pace. But it will not be easy to fill Bumrah's place as he is one of the most experienced and reliable bowlers in the team.Fans' expectations and Team India's challengeIndian fans are eagerly waiting for Jasprit Bumrah's return to the Champions Trophy. Bumrah's presence strengthens the Indian bowling attack and his role is very important in big matches. But if he does not play in the group stage matches, Team India will have to rely on the rest of its bowlers.It has become a big headache for the BCCI and the team management as to what should be the team's strategy in the absence of a match-winner like Jasprit Bumrah. In such a situation, all eyes will be on Bumrah's fitness in the coming days.ConclusionThe Champions Trophy 2025 is an important tournament for the Indian team, but the ongoing concerns about Jasprit Bumrah's fitness are affecting the team's preparations. If Bumrah stays out of the group stage, the Indian team will have to reorganize its bowling attack. Team India still has some options, but Bumrah's return will be a big relief not only for the team but also for the fans.