T20 World Cup Bumrah doubtful Siraj likely for USA clash
Jasprit Bumrah missed training due to mild fever, so India may rest him as Mohammed Siraj likely plays opener.
Mumbai: India’s star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the team’s opening T20 World Cup match against the United States on Saturday. He felt slightly unwell and skipped the training session on Friday evening.
Bumrah was running a mild temperature and did not bowl at the nets. This has raised questions about his availability for the first match. Team sources say the management does not want to take any early risk with him.
India sees Bumrah as a key player for the full tournament. With a long campaign ahead, the team feels it is better to be careful now than sorry later. The opening match is expected to be a comfortable one for India.
Because of this, the team is open to resting Bumrah as a precaution. There is no major injury concern, but the staff wants him fully fit for tougher games ahead.
Bumrah has been central to India’s white ball plans. His form and fitness are seen as vital, especially in pressure matches. Losing him later in the tournament could hurt India’s chances badly.
If Bumrah does not recover in time, Mohammed Siraj is expected to come into the playing eleven. Siraj joined the squad on Friday evening and is ready if called upon.
However, Siraj may not take the new ball. All rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to share the new ball duties. This would mean Siraj could come in as the first change bowler.
Siraj has experience in big matches and has bowled well in white ball cricket before. The team management believes he can do the job if needed, even if the conditions are new.
India’s group schedule is packed. After the USA match, India plays Namibia on February 12. Then comes the big clash against Pakistan on February 15. India will face the Netherlands on February 18.
The Pakistan match remains uncertain due to the current situation. Still, it is seen as one of the most important games of the group stage. The team wants all senior players fit for that contest.
Because of this, the USA match is being treated as low risk. The United States team is relatively inexperienced at this level. India is expected to dominate even without Bumrah.
Team officials feel it makes more sense to save Bumrah for stronger opponents. His workload is already heavy, and managing his fitness is a top priority.
The coaching staff believes that preserving Bumrah for the later stages of the tournament is crucial. Those matches will demand his best, both physically and mentally.
Bumrah himself is said to be disappointed about missing training. But he understands the larger picture and the need to stay fit for the full tournament.
The medical team is keeping a close watch on his condition. A final call on his inclusion will be taken closer to match time.
For now, India is preparing with backup plans in place. The focus remains on starting the tournament well, without putting extra strain on key players.
As the tournament progresses and challenges grow tougher, India will need Bumrah at his sharpest. Resting him early could turn out to be a smart move in the long run.