Mumbai: The likelihood of Jasprit Bumrah recovering in time for the ICC Champions Trophy, which commences on February 19, appears to be low. Nevertheless, the Indian management and selectors intend to wait as long as necessary to assess whether the fast bowler can participate without jeopardizing his long-term career.

The decision to allow Bumrah to travel to Dubai for India's opening match against Bangladesh on February 20 hinges on his ability to play in at least one competitive match. "Ideally, he should be fit to participate in at least one ODI against England. We have nearly a month available," stated a BCCI official. "This timeframe will enable the physiotherapists and Bumrah himself to determine if he is prepared to handle the demands of an ODI series after his absence from the sport."

Bumrah, who delivered an impressive performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, bowled over 151 overs, claiming 32 wickets at an average of 13.06. However, the significant workload resulted in back spasms during the final Test in Sydney in early January.

The provisional squad for the Champions Trophy will be announced in Mumbai on January 19, with the selectors having the option to include Bumrah, contingent on his fitness. The last of the three ODIs against England will take place on February 12, while the deadline for teams to submit their final squads to the ICC is midnight on February 11. After this date, changes can only be made for injury replacements with the approval of the ICC technical committee. The second ODI against England is set for February 9.

Currently, Bumrah has been advised to undergo a period of 'offloading' based on the results of his back scans, which were conducted following his spasms in Sydney. His bowling workload will be meticulously monitored once he resumes practice in the nets. The scans have indicated no fractures.

"Once he starts bowling again and if he experiences no pain, we can explore the possibility of his participation. However, no risks will be taken," the board official emphasized.

Bumrah's expertise across all formats, coupled with his previous back issues, necessitates strict adherence to medical guidance. He has sought the counsel of Dr. Rowan Schouten, the orthopaedic surgeon in New Zealand who performed surgery on his lower back in March 2023.

Should Bumrah's recovery extend into the first week of March, the likelihood of his participation midway through the tournament becomes complex. India's final league match against New Zealand is scheduled for March 2, with the semifinals and final, contingent upon India's qualification, set for March 4 and 9, respectively. His inclusion would depend on the tournament regulations and the mandatory injury replacement clause.

In the event that his rehabilitation is prolonged, Mohammed Shami is anticipated to secure his position, returning to competitive play after a 14-month international hiatus in this month's T20Is against England. The BCCI's medical team has exercised caution regarding Shami's comeback, and his bowling fitness will be meticulously assessed throughout the England series.

Mohammed Siraj, Hardik Pandya, and left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has demonstrated commendable form in domestic cricket, are expected to lead the pace attack in Dubai. Additionally, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana may be considered as backup options should Bumrah be unable to participate.

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