Pakistan's interim head coach Aaqib Javed has alleviated worries regarding Jasprit Bumrah's possible influence, minimizing the threat posed by India's leading fast bowler in anticipation of their eagerly awaited Champions Trophy clash. With doubts surrounding Bumrah's fitness, Aaqib dismissed the idea that Pakistan would tailor their strategies specifically to counter the Indian pacer.

"They (India) ought to be concerned about Bumrah's fitness. The beauty of the Champions Trophy lies in the fact that no team can be underestimated. The top eight teams are competing. If any team possesses a bowler like Bumrah, it certainly adds an advantage. However, we will not base our entire game plan around him," Aaqib stated to reporters, as reported by ANI.

Bumrah, who had previously dominated Australian batsmen earlier this year, faced difficulties in the final Test in Sydney, missing the second innings due to back spasms after an extensive workload of 386.4 overs in 2024. His absence was detrimental, contributing to India's weakened bowling attack and resulting in a 3-1 series loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Despite ongoing concerns, he has been named in India’s 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy.

India's captain Rohit Sharma provided an update on Bumrah’s status, indicating that the team is awaiting the results of scans that will clarify his availability.

"Jasprit, of course, we are waiting for an update regarding his scan, which is scheduled to take place in the coming days," Rohit mentioned during the pre-match press conference prior to the first ODI against England.

The management team is anticipated to receive further information regarding Bumrah's involvement in the final ODI against England once the results of the scan are available. "We are currently awaiting that update, which is expected in the coming days. After the scan, we should have a clearer understanding of his participation in the last ODI," Rohit stated.

Bumrah's impact on the game is indisputable. The Indian fast bowler was the leading wicket-taker in international cricket last year, amassing 86 wickets in 21 matches at an impressive average of 13.76. His performance in Test cricket was particularly remarkable, as he secured 71 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 14.92, which included five instances of taking five wickets in an innings.

India vs Pakistan

The two arch-rivals are set to face off in a highly anticipated match on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium. In their last encounter during an ICC tournament in Dubai, Pakistan achieved a notable 10-wicket victory in 2021; however, they have not secured a win since then, with India consistently outperforming them in the two limited-overs formats.

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