India's star pacer Jasprit Bumrah on Day 2 of the fifth Test of the series at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) left the field and was taken for scans. Bumrah returned and came out to bat early in the first session on Day 3 but did not turn up to bowl as India set a target of 162 for Australia. Earlier, it was reported that Bumrah has a back spasm. While there is no official confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) medical team, former Australia pacer-turned-commentator Brett Lee feels it can be long term.
"I think it will be something long-term," Lee said on air via Fox Cricket.
What Krishna said about Bumrah's injury
India walked out to defend a small target with one ball short. Earlier, after the end of Day 2's play, Prasidh Krishna said that he has a back spasm and the medical team is monitoring him.
"Bumrah had a back spasm. He went for scans. The medical team is monitoring him and we will know when the results arrive," Krishna said.
Bumrah's injury is a major blow for India considering ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner. Before that, Bumrah would've featured in the ODI series against England at home which will work as a preparatory series. He was set to miss the five-T20I series starting January 22.
Bumrah's workload and numbers in the series
Bumrah has bowled a total of 150 overs in the series. He bowled 10 overs in the first innings before leaving the field for further medical assessment. The pacer handed over the captaincy to Virat Kohli. In Bumrah's absence, India bowled out Australia for 181 to take a four-run lead.
Bumrah has been the leading wicket-taker in the series by far. He took record-breaking 32 wickets at an average of 13.06 including three five-wicket hauls. The next bowler on the list is Pat Cummins with 25 wickets.