India’s pace bowler Prasidh Krishna has provided an update on Jasprit Bumrah’s condition after the star pacer experienced a back spasm during the ongoing series.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Krishna reassured that Bumrah is under close medical supervision, with further details expected once the team’s medical staff has completed their assessment.
"Bumrah experienced a back spasm and underwent scans. The medical team is closely monitoring his condition, and we'll have more clarity once they provide an update," Krishna explained, highlighting the importance of the ongoing process.
Bumrah, who is serving as India’s stand-in captain in the absence of Rohit Sharma, left the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) earlier today for medical scans. However, he has since returned to the stadium and rejoined his teammates in the dressing room. The 29-year-old fast bowler was forced to leave the field on Day 2 of the Sydney Test after experiencing discomfort during the post-lunch session.
After seeking immediate medical attention, Bumrah was seen exiting the ground. Reports later confirmed that he underwent scans to determine the severity of the injury.
At the time of his departure, Bumrah had bowled eight overs, including the crucial wicket of Marnus Labuschagne, and had just begun a new spell. Before the injury, he had bowled a total of 151.2 overs across five Tests in the series, second only to Australian pacer Pat Cummins (152 overs). His heavy workload has raised concerns about the risk of overuse, particularly given India’s reliance on him in the absence of other key bowlers.
This injury scare follows a previous concern in the second Test in Adelaide, where Bumrah sought medical attention for groin discomfort but continued to bowl without further issues. Bumrah’s fitness remains crucial for India as they seek to maintain their momentum in the series.
The pace spearhead has been in exceptional form throughout the series, taking 32 wickets at an outstanding average of 13.06, making him the leading wicket-taker. His performance has also matched Harbhajan Singh's record for the most wickets by an Indian in a single Test series against Australia. Fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for India’s most valuable asset.
India’s opening batsman, Rohit Sharma, had previously acknowledged the risks of overbowling Bumrah, emphasising the need for careful workload management. Bumrah’s career has been marked by recurring injuries, including a thumb injury during the 2018 England tour, a lower back stress fracture in 2019, and several setbacks in the years following.
In 2022, a back injury sidelined him for several months during India’s tour of England. Though he made a return during the home T20I series against Australia, another injury kept him out for 11 months.
As India continues its battle in this competitive series, the team management faces a critical decision regarding Bumrah's workload and fitness to ensure he remains a key long-term asset.(UNI)
