Concerns regarding Jasprit Bumrah's fitness are escalating. Following his injury, where he clutched his inner thigh during the first over with the second new ball in Australia's initial innings in Adelaide, the anxiety within the Indian camp has become increasingly apparent. There are justifiable reasons for this apprehension. With Mohammed Shami absent, Bumrah has emerged as the sole Indian bowler capable of posing a challenge to the Australian batsmen in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Mohammed Siraj has shown flashes of potential, he still has considerable ground to cover to match the calibre of Shami or Bumrah. Harshit Rana faced significant difficulties during the day-night Test against Travis Head. This situation leaves Indian captain Rohit Sharma with limited alternatives. Bumrah is undoubtedly his key asset, perhaps the only one.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has expressed that Rohit cannot afford to give Bumrah extended spells, as he is essentially India's "only bowler." Kaif emphasized that if Bumrah were to sustain an injury, India's chances in the ongoing five-Test series, currently tied at 1-1, would be severely compromised.

"There is no need for excessive concern; the series is level at 1-1. Losing one Test does not signify the end. Strategic planning must improve, and tactical adjustments should be implemented. Rohit's captaincy has not been up to par. Moreover, with Bumrah being the only bowler, long spells are not feasible. It is unusual for a team to rely so heavily on a single player. With Ashwin and Jadeja unavailable, an injury to Bumrah would effectively end India's hopes in the series. This is why Rohit is managing his bowling time carefully," Kaif stated in a video posted on his social media platforms.

"Bumrah's fitness is being closely monitored. Rohit Sharma has been advised to ensure his well-being, as he is the only fast bowler available," he added.

Bumrah skips India's practice session

Bumrah, who captained India in Rohit's absence during the first Test in Perth, delivered an outstanding performance with the ball, claiming eight wickets throughout the match. His opening spell on Day 1, following India's dismissal for 150 runs, was regarded as one of the finest in contemporary cricket. It was largely due to his exceptional display that India secured victory in the Test by a record margin of 295 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

In the second Test, Bumrah once again emerged as India's primary source of breakthroughs. However, the demands of consistently delivering under pressure began to affect his performance. As the innings progressed, his pace diminished, and he was observed experiencing discomfort in his inner thighs.

While the Indian team management has dismissed concerns regarding a serious injury, they have opted for a cautious strategy. Bumrah did not participate in India's practice session in Adelaide on Tuesday; instead, he dedicated considerable time to working with the team's strength and conditioning coaches to maintain his fitness.

The third Test is set to commence in Brisbane on Saturday, and India will rely on Bumrah to perform at his best.

Read Also: Shami's Australia Journey in Limbo Amid BCCI's Caution Over Rohit Sharma's Knee Issue

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