The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) held a crucial review meeting in Mumbai on Thursday, September 3, 2026, to discuss key issues surrounding the Indian cricket team. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Centre of Excellence head VVS Laxman were present at the meeting. The discussions reportedly focused on injury management, player fitness and India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Improving communication between the national selection committee and the Centre of Excellence was also understood to be a major priority following recent concerns. One of the biggest issues discussed was Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for India’s recent Test tour of Sri Lanka.
According to a report by Dainik Bhaskar, chief selector Ajit Agarkar was reportedly unaware of Bumrah’s unavailability when the squad for the Sri Lanka Tests was being finalised. The report claimed that Agarkar had to contact the Centre of Excellence to seek clarity on Bumrah’s fitness. While there was reportedly an informal indication that the fast bowler might be available for one or two Tests, the lack of clear, formal communication created uncertainty during the selection process.
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Bumrah has since been included in India’s Afghanistan T20I squad, subject to fitness clearance from the Centre of Excellence. He is scheduled to undergo a fitness test on September 9 alongside Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana.
Hardik Pandya’s fitness was another major concern for the team management. Reports suggest that the all-rounder is currently unable to bowl more than five or six overs in an ODI. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an important part of India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, making his fitness a key issue for the selectors.
The upcoming Afghanistan T20I series will provide another opportunity to assess India’s squad and player fitness. The three-match series is scheduled to be played from September 13 to 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The fitness assessments on September 9 will therefore be closely monitored, particularly with several players competing for places in India’s long-term plans.
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The September 3 review meeting has highlighted the importance of stronger coordination between the BCCI’s selection committee, coaching staff and Centre of Excellence. With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, India will hope to avoid similar communication gaps while ensuring that player fitness and workload management remain central to their preparations.
