Team India's batting coach, Sidhanshu Kotak, has refrained from providing any updates regarding Jasprit Bumrah's fitness as the deadline for finalizing the Champions Trophy squad approaches. Bumrah has been included in India's roster for the prestigious ICC event; however, uncertainty remains regarding his availability, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not released any information concerning his fitness following a back strain sustained during the tour of Australia.

With the Champions Trophy scheduled to commence on February 19 in Dubai and Pakistan, speculation is growing that the BCCI medical team and Bumrah are under increasing pressure to ensure his recovery in time for the significant tournament.

When questioned about Bumrah's injury status prior to the second ODI against England, coach Kotak acknowledged his lack of knowledge regarding the results of the scans.

"That’s something the physio would know," Kotak stated during the press conference.

In the meantime, the batting coach conveyed his confidence in the team's preparation, although he did not disclose any specifics regarding the team composition.

"The entire team looks solid. Whether there will be any experimentation, the introduction of new players into the XI, or the exclusion of senior players is a matter for the head coach and captain to discuss and decide. Therefore, I believe I cannot comment on that."

‘Selection decision lies with the head coach and captain’

Recently, Mohammed Shami made his return to competitive cricket and demonstrated commendable form, which bodes well for Team India. Kotak has also confirmed that the pacer is "completely fit." Shami re-entered the international arena during the recent T20I series after a 14-month hiatus due to injury. He participated in domestic matches to validate his fitness before receiving a call-up for the series against England. Should Bumrah be unable to recover in time, Shami is anticipated to spearhead the Indian pace attack.

In the first ODI against England, India opted for Shami and Harshit Rana as their primary fast bowlers, while Arshdeep Singh, who was selected from the Champions Trophy squad, remained on the sidelines, prompting considerable speculation. 

When inquired about the possibility of Arshdeep being given an opportunity, he refrained from providing a definitive answer, reiterating, "That decision lies with the head coach and captain."

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