Jasprit Bumrah is on the road to recovery after suffering from back spasms during the Sydney Test in January. He has resumed bowling in the nets at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, under the supervision of BCCI’s fitness experts. However, with the Champions Trophy approaching on February 19, selectors are weighing the decision to include Bumrah in the squad, balancing his unmatched skills against the need to protect his long-term fitness.

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• Jasprit Bumrah is recovering from back spasms and has resumed bowling at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
• Bumrah has slowly increased his bowling workload, starting with two overs, now progressing to four.
• The India team management is deliberating whether to include him in the Champions Trophy squad without a competitive match trial.
• The deadline to name the final squad is Tuesday midnight, after which any replacement will need ICC approval.
• The selectors face a dilemma: Bumrah’s skills are crucial for the Champions Trophy, but his long-term fitness is a concern.
• Bumrah has missed the first two ODIs against England, and it’s likely he will miss the third ODI as well.
• If Bumrah misses part of the Champions Trophy, it would not be without precedent; Australia named Travis Head in their 2023 World Cup squad despite a recovery from injury.
• The decision to include Bumrah will depend on fresh discussions between the India team management, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and the BCCI medical team.
• If Bumrah is deemed too risky, Harshit Rana, a strong backup option, could be included instead.
• Harshit Rana has impressed with four wickets in two matches against England, making him a viable replacement.