How long will Jasprit Bumrah be sidelined after being advised bed rest and what does it mean for India’s 2025 Champions Trophy hopes?

How long will Jasprit Bumrah be sidelined after being advised bed rest and what does it mean for India’s 2025 Champions Trophy hopes?
India's superstar pacer Jasprit Bumrah (R) and bowling coach Morne Morkel in frame

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Jasprit Bumrah has been advised bed rest after picking gruesome back injury during Sydney Test

Jasprit Bumrah will have to take bed rest until the swelling in his back subsides

India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been advised to take bed rest hinting at a long injury layoff ahead of Champions Trophy 2025. During the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Jasprit Bumrah experienced a back spasm which prevented him from bowling in the second innings and forced him to leave the field midway through the match.

Bed rest for Jasprit Bumrah ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

As per a Times of India report, Bumrah, who was the Player of the series in Border-Gavaskar Trophy with 32 wickets under his belt, has a swelling in his back and will be required to report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for further evaluation. However, the exact date for his arrival at the center has not yet been disclosed.

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It has also been learnt that Bumrah has been advised to prioritise rest and remain in bed to facilitate muscle recovery and reduce swelling. Bumrah's future course of action will be determined based on his progress.

"Bumrah could go to the CoE next week but right now there is no fixed date yet. He has been advised bed rest at home to help the muscles recover and the swelling to subside. Once that is done, future course of action will be ascertained," a source told TOI.

Looking at the extent of Bumrah's injury, it looks like Bumrah won't be rushed back, and will take time to return to the competitive cricket.

"Bed rest doesn't sound good. I hope it's not a disc bulge or a muscle swelling which is of a higher grade. The approach has to be similar with him - wrap him in cotton wool and preserve the talent like him," the source further added.

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Jasprit Bumrah injury concerns

Bumrah has a history of back issues, even requiring surgery in the past. Despite these challenges, he has consistently delivered outstanding performances for India, including guiding them to T20 World Cup 2024 triumph.

However, the increased workload and extended bowling spells appear to have exacerbated his previous back injury. Despite his recent recognition as the ICC Player of the Month for December, his participation in future tournaments remains uncertain due to the ongoing concerns about his back injury.

Team India has a busy schedule in the coming months, including a home white-ball series against England, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, IPL 2025, and finally an away Test series in England and Bumrah's absence will only add to their bowling woes.

Meanwhile, BCCI are yet to announce their squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy which is set to start from February 19. Given the upcoming schedule and the February 13 deadline for squad modifications, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is awaiting the final medical report on Bumrah before making a definitive decision on his inclusion in the ICC Champions Trophy squad.