Jasprit Bumrah fitness: Indian pacer bowling in NCA nets but no timeline on return yet

The eagerly awaited return of Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah to the national team remains uncertain. Despite the lack of a definitive answer from both Bumrah and the medical team overseeing his recovery, there is some positive news.

Bumrah recently completed a seven-over spell at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) nets, providing a glimmer of hope for Indian fans eagerly anticipating his return before the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Having undergone surgery for a recurring back issue in New Zealand back in March, Bumrah has been on the path to recovery ever since. His last appearance for India was during the home T20Is against Australia in September 2022.

The question now arises: Will Bumrah be able to make a comeback during the T20I series against Ireland or the Asia Cup? "For an injury of this nature, it is not wise to set any timeline as constant monitoring is necessary. But it can be said that Bumrah is recovering well and he has bowled seven overs at NCA nets. It is a steady increase in his workload from the light workouts and bowling sessions of the initial period," a reliable source told PTI.

Next month, Bumrah is scheduled to participate in a few practice matches at the NCA, where his fitness will be closely assessed. The medical team will make a decision based on his performance and overall well-being.

KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, who are also undergoing recovery at the NCA, are making expected progress. However, no specific timeline has been set for their return either. Rahul underwent thigh surgery in London, while Iyer underwent a procedure for a bulging disc on his lower back, also in London.

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(With PTI inputs)