Why is Jasprit Bumrah not included in India squad for England ODI series?

Jasprit Bumrah was India’s leading wicket-taker in test cricket in 2024.

India, on Saturday, 18th January, announced their 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against England and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Given the ODI series against England is the last assignment before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the selectors have named same squad for both of the series. However, Jasprit Bumrah has not been included for the three-match home ODI series against England.

Bumrah had an outstanding year in 2024, finishing as India’s leading wicket-taker in test cricket. He also played a key role in India’s victory at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and the USA.

India will play a three-match ODI series against England starting February 6. The series will help the team fine-tune their preparations before heading to Dubai for the Champions Trophy.

Why is Jasprit Bumrah not included in India squad for England ODI series?

During the squad announcement, India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that Jasprit Bumrah will not play in the ODI series against England, and Harshit Rana will replace him.

He also mentioned that Bumrah will miss the first two games of the ODI series against England and will go under fitness tests to decide on his participation in the final ODI against England and the subsequent ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

“At this moment what we have been told is that Bumrah is not in position to play the first couple of games. We’re waiting on hi fitness and will know his status in early February from BCCI’s medical team,” said Ajit Agarkar.

Bumrah’s absence follows a back injury sustained during the last test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Sydney. He bowled just one over after the lunch break on day 2 before leaving the field for scans.

He did not participate in the second innings of the match, which India ultimately lost by six wickets. The Indian management has been cautious with Bumrah’s workload and is unlikely to rush his recovery.

Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shami have been named alongside Bumrah to complete the pace attack for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Hardik Pandya is expected to serve as the third seam-bowling option for India in the tournament.

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