The fitness of Jasprit Bumrah has become a significant concern for the Indian cricket team as they prepare for the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia. Scheduled to take place at The Gabba in Brisbane from Saturday, December 14, the match could see India without their star pacer, a potential setback for Rohit Sharma’s side.
Bumrah, who has been instrumental for India in the series so far, was notably absent from the team’s recent net sessions in Adelaide. According to reports, his absence was attributed to workload management, but speculation about his fitness arose following his visible discomfort during the second Test in Adelaide.
In the first innings of that match, Bumrah was attended to by team physios after appearing to struggle with a niggle. Despite continuing to bowl, he seemed far from his best. In the second innings, he bowled just one over, showing reduced pace and was quickly replaced by Nitish Kumar Reddy as India defended a mere 19 runs.
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Former Australian cricketer Damien Fleming expressed serious doubts about Bumrah’s condition during an appearance on SEN Radio. Fleming criticized the decision to have Bumrah bowl even one over in the second innings, suggesting it may have exposed India’s vulnerabilities. “There’s no way that’s cramp,” Fleming said. “He was very ginger after the break in the first innings. Why bowl that over in the second? It revealed too much.”
Bumrah’s form has been crucial in the series, where he is the leading wicket-taker with 12 scalps in two games. His absence or reduced effectiveness could shift the balance as the series, currently tied at 1-1, heads to Brisbane. India’s team management will be keen to ensure his full recovery before the critical Test at The Gabba, a venue known for its pace-friendly conditions.
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While India continues their preparation, the absence of Bumrah in training and his questionable fitness raise important tactical concerns. If Bumrah is unable to play, Mohammed Siraj and other pacers will have to step up to fill the void. For now, Indian fans and team management alike will be hoping their premier fast bowler is fit and ready to lead the attack in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
