DUBAI: The participation of India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the all-important ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a swelling on his back. A decision on his inclusion in the Indian squad is expected soon.
Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir believes that Bumrah’s absence would put immense pressure on India during the mega tournament, scheduled to begin on February 19.
India are placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand. They will open their campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh in Dubai. Following this, India will face Pakistan and New Zealand on February 23 and March 2, respectively, in their remaining group-stage matches.
“The way Pakistan has played recently — defeating Australia in Australia and then beating South Africa — shows their strength, especially in overseas conditions. Considering their recent performances, I think Pakistan will have the upper hand against India. However, India has always been my favorite in big tournaments. But the Indian team is under pressure and facing severe criticism due to their recent defeats,” Amir told TimesofIndia.com during a group media interaction at the Dubai International Stadium.
On Bumrah’s potential absence, Amir emphasised his importance to India’s bowling unit.
“It will be a huge loss to India if Bumrah isn’t there. He has been a top bowler for India, leading the pack from the front. Without him, the Indian bowling attack is reduced to 40-50 percent of its strength,” he said.
Bumrah, who has 443 international wickets in 204 games across formats, delivered a stellar performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, claiming 32 wickets in the five-match series — the highest by an Indian on foreign soil. His performances earned him the Player of the Series award.
Bumrah bowled 151.2 overs or 908 deliveries in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, raising the question of whether this workload contributed to the injury of India’s star fast bowler.
India’s ODI squad for the Champions Trophy is yet to be announced, and Bumrah’s fitness remains a key concern. The team’s prospects in the tournament could hinge significantly on whether their star pacer is ready in time.