In the lead-up to the World Cup 2023, the Indian cricket team has received encouraging updates regarding the availability of three key players: Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer. Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, Bumrah and Iyer have successfully undergone back surgeries, while Rahul has undergone surgery for a hip flexor injury. The officials at NCA have provided positive feedback regarding their progress.
According to a report by The Indian Express, Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul are expected to be ready for selection in the Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in September, if their recovery progresses as planned. Bumrah, who underwent back surgery in March, has already commenced bowling sessions at the NCA nets, indicating positive progress in his rehabilitation.
On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer is still in the process of recovering from his back surgery and may not be available for the Asia Cup. As a contingency plan, the Indian team is considering Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav as potential replacements or cover for Iyer in the tournament. The focus remains on monitoring the recovery of the injured players while exploring alternatives to ensure a strong squad for the Asia Cup.
There is a possibility that the fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, could be fit in time for India’s tour of Ireland in August. However, the Indian team management and medical staff are adopting a cautious approach and do not intend to rush his recovery. Their primary objective is to ensure that Bumrah is fully fit and in optimal condition for the World Cup.
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Considering the significance of Bumrah’s availability for the World Cup and its impact on India’s chances, the selectors have decided against repeating the hasty approach they took last September, when they rushed his return with the T20 World Cup in mind. Instead, they are prioritizing his long-term fitness and well-being, believing that there is no need to jeopardize his recovery by rushing him back into action.
Considering the long flight and quick turnaround involved, it is believed to be a safe decision to include Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian team for the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. However, his workload will be carefully monitored even during the championship event to ensure he is fully recovered and in good form for the upcoming World Cup.
Regarding KL Rahul, reports suggest that he will resume skill-based training around mid-July. There is a high likelihood that the 31-year-old might be prepared for the T20 International matches against Ireland, scheduled to start on August 18 and conclude on August 23.