Jasprit Bumrah’s IPL participation uncertain as rehabilitation continues

Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene has provided an update on India’s fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s injury status ahead of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), set to begin on March 22.

Bumrah, who sustained an injury during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series, was subsequently ruled out of India’s victorious ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.

Despite missing the tournament, the 31-year-old pacer had already established his dominance, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with an astonishing 32 wickets in five matches.

Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Bumrah’s availability for the initial matches of the IPL remains uncertain.

Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, Jayawardene shared insights into the pacer’s recovery process.

“[Bumrah] has just started his progress. We have to wait and see what feedback we get from the BCCI medical team,” Jayawardene stated, indicating that Mumbai Indians are monitoring the situation closely.

The former Sri Lankan captain further acknowledged the challenge of missing Bumrah’s services but assured fans that the pacer is in good spirits. “At the moment, everything is going well. But it is on a day-to-day basis. He is in good spirits. Not having him is a challenge,” he remarked.

Jayawardene emphasized Bumrah’s significance to the team, highlighting his exceptional contributions over the years. “He is one of the best bowlers in the world, and he has been a fantastic pro for us for many years,” he added.

This injury setback is Bumrah’s first since March 2023, when a back injury forced him to miss the IPL and the ICC World Test Championship final, where India suffered defeat against Australia.

Since his IPL debut, Bumrah has been a cornerstone of the Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack, claiming 165 wickets in 133 matches. His fitness will be crucial for the franchise as they aim for another successful campaign in the upcoming season.