MUMBAI: The foremost challenge facing the Indian cricket team as they approach the Champions Trophy is addressing the significant gap left by the influential fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who is unable to participate in the ICC event due to an unresolved back injury. The prospects of the squad, captained by Rohit Sharma, will largely hinge on their capacity to compensate for the absence of this pace sensation.

Consequently, attention will be directed towards the pace bowling unit comprising Mohammed Shami, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and Hardik Pandya, who are expected to elevate their performance.

“The venue (Dubai) presents a unique challenge, but we possess a well-rounded attack,” stated Paras Mhambrey, the former bowling coach of India, during an interview with HT at the MI Junior inter-school cricket tournament finals. “Naturally, Bumrah's absence will be felt; he is undoubtedly one of the premier bowlers globally. His performances over the past year and a half speak for themselves. It would be unreasonable to expect anyone to truly fill his shoes. Such situations arise, and we must proceed with the available combination.”

He further remarked, “Our bowlers have shown promise, and Harshit Rana, who has stepped in for Bumrah, has performed admirably in recent one-day matches. It is essential to support him. If the selectors believe in his abilities, he deserves that backing. The team possesses ample experience, particularly in the spin department, which is well-balanced. I am optimistic about our bowling attack and eagerly anticipate the Champions Trophy.”

While Rana is positioned as Bumrah’s substitute, it is the seasoned Shami who must rise to the occasion and take on the additional responsibilities. Mhambrey is well-acquainted with Shami’s capabilities, having served as India’s bowling coach during Shami’s outstanding performance at the 2023 ICC World Cup.

Shami currently stands as the most seasoned bowler in the squad, and I am confident that he is aware of the significant expectations placed upon him. It is encouraging to see him recover from his injury, as he possesses exceptional skills. His contributions to Indian cricket have been remarkable, particularly highlighted by his outstanding performance in the ODIs against England. I believe he will continue to develop from this point onward.

With 103 ODIs and 197 wickets to his credit, the veteran bowler is returning from an extended injury hiatus. It remains uncertain whether he can recapture the form he displayed during the recent ICC 50-over tournament, specifically the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India, where he impressively took 24 wickets in seven matches at a strike rate of 12.20.

Mhambrey, however, chose to exercise caution when asked if Shami could reach that level of performance again or if it would require additional time. “It is too early to determine; he may achieve it, or he may not. Given the length of his absence due to injury, it will take time. A significant positive is that he is back on the field, which is encouraging.”

India is looking to Rana to assume the role of the second seamer and establish a strong partnership with Shami. In three ODIs against England, the 23-year-old pacer secured six wickets but also conceded runs at an economy rate of 6.95. Mhambrey emphasized the importance of supporting the young bowler. “Allow him some time; if you believe he is worth investing in, exercise a bit of patience.”

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