In a promising development for Indian cricket enthusiasts, Jasprit Bumrah has been bowling seven overs daily at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The star fast bowler has been sidelined due to a recurring back injury since September 2022, but his rapid recovery at the NCA raises hopes of his return to international cricket before the ICC ODI World Cup 2023.
Initial reports suggested that Bumrah could make his comeback during India’s three-match T20I series against Ireland in August 2023. However, a recent report from PTI indicates that there is no concrete timeline for Bumrah’s return. While he is bowling regularly again and increasing his workload, a few practice matches at the NCA will be crucial for him to regain his match fitness.
“For an injury of this nature, it is not wise to set any timeline as constant monitoring is necessary. But it can be said that Bumrah is recovering well, and he has bowled seven overs at NCA nets. It is a steady increase in his workload from the light workouts and bowling sessions of the initial period. He will play a few practice matches (at NCA) next month, and there will be a close assessment of his fitness then,” revealed a source tracking the development, as reported by PTI.
Ramji Srinivasan, the former strength and conditioning coach of Team India, emphasized the importance of not rushing Bumrah’s return. Srinivasan suggested that the paceman should play some domestic matches before making his comeback to international cricket.
He should not be hurried. Playing practice matches at the NCA is a good step as it will help tune his body to the demands of a match. But he should be made to play in some actual (domestic) matches before bringing him to top-level cricket. The demands of international cricket are different, and the body should be absolutely ready to take that amount of workload. Recovering from a stress fracture is a delicate exercise, and Bumrah should be allowed maximum recovery time,” explained Ramji to PTI.
India’s upcoming schedule includes a multi-format series against West Indies starting on July 12, followed by three T20Is against Ireland in August. While the specific timeline for Bumrah’s return remains uncertain, fans eagerly await his comeback to bolster the Indian bowling attack and contribute to the team’s pursuit of success on the international stage.
As the star pacer continues his rehabilitation and recovery process, the cricketing fraternity hopes for a full and complete return for Jasprit Bumrah, who has established himself as one of the most formidable fast bowlers in the world.
