Delhi: Star Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s knee injury has not fully healed. Consequently, the possibility of him missing the two-match Test series in Sri Lanka has increased. The team management and medical staff are currently reluctant to take any risks regarding his return.
Aqib Nabi may get his first chance
Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aaqib Nabi is expected to replace Bumrah in the Indian team. According to sources close to the selection committee, a consensus has been reached on his name, and an official announcement is expected soon. If this happens, Aaqib will become the third cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to reach the Indian senior team. Previously, Parvez Rasool and Umran Malik have been part of the national team.
Excellent performance in domestic cricket became the basis
Aaqib Nabi has consistently bowled impressively in the last two seasons of the Ranji Trophy, taking over 100 wickets. His sharpness with the new ball, along with his ability to bat usefully in the lower order, has caught the attention of the selectors. His performance in domestic cricket makes him a strong contender for this opportunity.
The medical team does not want to take any risk.
The sports science team at the Bengaluru-based Centre of Excellence believes that rushing Bumrah into action would be inappropriate. While initial assessments had hoped he would be fit for at least one Test, his knee condition is still not completely satisfactory. Therefore, a plan has been developed to give him additional time to fully recover.
The fitness of other players is also a matter of concern.
The number of injured players also poses a challenge for the Indian team. Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, and Washington Sundar are currently recovering from injuries. Sai Sudarshan is also undergoing rehabilitation, and a final decision on his availability will be made in the coming days. Therefore, fitness will be a key factor in team selection for the Sri Lanka tour.
FAQ
Will Jasprit Bumrah play the Sri Lanka Test series?
His knee injury hasn’t fully healed yet, so he’s likely to miss the Sri Lanka Test series.
Who can get a chance in place of Jasprit Bumrah?
According to sources, Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aaqib Nabi may be included in the Indian team for the first time.
Why can Aaqib Nabi be selected for Team India?
Aaqib Nabi has bowled brilliantly in the last two seasons of the Ranji Trophy, taking over 100 wickets and also being useful in the lower order.