The ICC Champions Trophy 2025which starts in February, is almost over, and India has not announced their team. The delay has created a lot of speculation among fans and pundits, especially about the fitness of the star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Notably, Bumrah faced problems during India's last tour to Australia where he did not play fully and was also rested for the upcoming T20I against England.
The delay in the team's announcement is being interpreted by some as a way to manage the selectors, perhaps to reassess Bumrah's fitness level before making a final decision. However, this uncertainty has only added to the optimism and anxiety surrounding India's campaign in the tournament. Some reports have suggested that the star might miss the first game in Dubai.
Missing Jasprit Bumrah: Big blow to India's chances
Bumrah's importance to India's bowling unit cannot be overstated. With his deadly yorkers, accuracy, and ability to bowl down the ground, Bumrah is regarded as one of the fastest pacers in world cricket. His absence would not only bring disruption to Indian bowling but also disrupt the team's balance sheet.
Meanwhile, the former Indian captain Kris Srikanth has underlined the magnitude of Bumrah's absence, considering that without the Ahmedabad-born cricketer, India do not look like a better side.
“It is bad news for Jasprit Bumrah himself. He has carried the ball for this team on his shoulders for years. If Bumrah is not there, then we are gone. Without him, our bowling has no X-factor,” said Srikkanth on his YouTube channel.
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Kris Srikkanth recommends the inclusion of Bhuvneshwar Kumar
To counter the gap that may be left by Bumrah, Srikkanth has decided to include veteran batsman Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the squad. The former selector and pilot felt that Bhuvneshwar's achievements and skills made him the right fit to boost the team's performances.
“Bhuvneshwar Kumar deserves to be in India's ODI squad for the Champions Trophy. He is very experienced,” Srikkanth said, I emphasize that Bhuvneshwar has been doing well in domestic cricket and still has a lot to offer in the international game.
Srikkanth highlighted Bhuvneshwar's importance to the Indian team by comparing the situation with that of Karun Nairemphasizing that if Nair can take revenge, there is no reason why Bhuvneshwar should not. He said that Bhuvneshwar's experience and skills make him a reliable option who can come to the rescue in difficult times.
“If you can bring someone like Karun Nair back, why not Bhuvi? He has been playing domestic cricket and he is playing good football. In the T20 World Cup 2022, apart from the semi-final, he was very good. You can bring him into the set-up, and he will deliver when needed,” added Srikanth.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Experienced enough to keep
Incidentally, Bhuvneshwar, who has been a key contributor to Indian bowling, is also known for his ability to swing the ball in both directions and maintain tight lines. While he last played an ODI in 2022 and has been out of List-A cricket for two years, his past performances at ICC events show his ability to thrive under pressure.
During the T20 World Cup 2022, Bhuvneshwar was one of India's best batsmen, protecting the opposition batsmen all the time. His ability to control the game at critical moments can be a valuable asset, especially when the swing and seam plays a key role.
In addition, Bhuvneshwar's vast experience can benefit India's younger players, providing them with guidance and support during tough times. His presence will not only strengthen the bowling attack but also bring stability and credibility to the team.