Pacer Jasprit Bumrah may be sidelined for a longer period than initially anticipated. While he was expected to return by the first week of April, his recovery has been postponed. Reports indicate that Bumrah's injury is more severe than previously thought. Although he has started bowling in the nets, he has not yet returned to full intensity. The BCCI medical team, which is closely monitoring his progress at the Centre of Excellence, is taking a cautious approach to avoid any long-term consequences, particularly the risk of a stress fracture.

"The severity of Bumrah's injury is greater than expected. The medical team is focused on preventing a stress fracture. Bumrah is exercising caution himself. He is practicing at the CoE, but it may take additional time for him to return to peak performance. No specific timeline has been established, but there is hope for his return by mid-April," a source informed The Times of India.

Bumrah sustained a lower back injury during the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney in January, leaving the field during the first innings and not bowling again as India lost the match by eight wickets. The BCCI and selector chairman Ajit Agarkar were optimistic about Bumrah's recovery in time for the Champions Trophy, including him in the 15-member squad and for the ODIs against England. However, those plans were disrupted, leading to Bumrah being replaced by Harshit Rana.

Should Bumrah be preserved for England?

Bumrah is in good physical condition, but not sufficiently so to be risked in play. Recently, Shane Bond, the former New Zealand fast bowler and current bowling coach for the Mumbai Indians, indicated that Bumrah is nearing a fracture in his back. Given his previous issues with this injury, rushing him back could potentially shorten his career. India has made this error in the past, hastily bringing Bumrah back for two T20 matches against Australia in September 2022. The outcome was detrimental; he exacerbated his injury and was sidelined for nearly a year.

Bumrah's return in 2023, marked by a more formidable and intimidating presence, was made possible by allowing him ample time to heal completely. He remained a dominant force until his performance in Sydney. The Mumbai Indians are counting on Bumrah to help them recover from their recent struggles, but the broader perspective is focused on England. It may be wise for Bumrah to take the necessary time to fully recuperate, ensuring his participation in the five-Test series commencing on June 20 at Headingley.

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