India’s star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the group stage of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy due to a back injury. Diagnosed with swelling on his back, Bumrah has been instructed to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for rehabilitation. This setback comes after he played a pivotal role in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he took 32 wickets but had to withdraw during the final Test in Sydney due to back spasms.

The Champions Trophy is set to begin on February 19, with India’s first match against Bangladesh on February 20. However, it remains uncertain whether Bumrah will be fit in time for these crucial games. Reports indicate that he is expected to regain full fitness only by the first week of March, which may be too late for him to participate in the group stages.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has requested an extension for squad announcements, allowing them more time to assess Bumrah’s recovery. If he fails to recover in time, India will need to rely on other pacers like MohdSiraj and Arshdeep Singh. The selectors face a tough decision regarding Bumrah’s inclusion, as they prepare for a tournament that features the world’s top eight ODI teams.