Jasprit Bumrah Replacement: Who Will Step Up for India in Champions Trophy 2025?
The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, but before this ICC tournament, several teams are facing setbacks due to injuries to key players. The Indian team is particularly concerned about Jasprit Bumrah’s injury. Teams have until February 11 to make changes to their squads, but there has been no official update regarding Bumrah’s fitness.
Bumrah sustained an injury during the last match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He had an outstanding performance in the Test series against Australia, earning the Man of the Series award. However, he experienced back pain in the final match and did not return to bowl.
For the ongoing India vs England three-match ODI series, the Indian team has included Harshit Rana as the third fast bowler alongside Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya in Bumrah’s absence. Harshit Rana made his ODI debut in the first match. But if Bumrah is unable to recover in time for the Champions Trophy 2025, who could replace him in Team India?
Possible Replacements for Jasprit Bumrah
1. Mohammed Siraj
The first and most likely replacement for Bumrah is Mohammed Siraj. Despite not being initially selected for the Champions Trophy squad, Siraj has been a key bowler for India alongside Bumrah. If Bumrah is ruled out, Siraj could be a strong addition to the squad.
Siraj has played 44 ODIs, taking 71 wickets at an impressive average of 24.04. He was also a part of India’s squad in the ODI World Cup 2023, making him an experienced and reliable choice.
2. Harshit Rana
Another option for India is Harshit Rana, who is currently playing in the ODI series against England. He made his ODI debut in the first match and made an immediate impact, taking 3 wickets. So far, he has played 2 ODIs, picking up 4 wickets.
While Harshit has shown promise, he has also been expensive in both matches. If the selectors prioritize a young, aggressive bowler, he could be considered as Bumrah’s replacement.
3. Prasidh Krishna
Prasidh Krishna could be India’s third option in Bumrah’s absence. A pacer who has played in all three formats for India, he has featured in 17 ODIs, taking 29 wickets at an average of 25.58.
Prasidh performed well in Bumrah’s absence during the last Test against Australia. His ODI record is also solid, making him a potential backup if India needs an extra fast bowler.
4. Shardul Thakur
Although currently sidelined due to injury, Shardul Thakur could be an ideal replacement if he recovers in time. Shardul is a fast-bowling all-rounder, contributing both with the ball and in the lower batting order.
In the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, he showcased his all-round abilities, scoring 396 runs and taking 30 wickets in 8 matches. His current form could be valuable for India in the Champions Trophy.
Shardul has played 47 ODIs, claiming 65 wickets with an economy of 6.22. His experience in high-pressure situations would be an added advantage for Team India.
Final Thoughts
With Bumrah’s availability still uncertain, Team India has multiple options for his replacement. Mohammed Siraj seems to be the most probable choice due to his experience and consistency. However, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, and Shardul Thakur are also strong contenders based on their recent performances.
The Indian selectors will have to make a crucial decision before February 11 to finalize their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025.
