‘If you rush Jasprit Bumrah for the World Cup, then you might lose him for four months’ Ravi Shastri over Bumrah’s return.

Former Indian captain and head coach, Ravi Shastri, has advised caution regarding the return of Jasprit Bumrah to the national side, particularly in a World Cup year. Bumrah, who has been recovering from a back injury, is rumored to be making his comeback during India’s tour of Ireland in August.

The news of Bumrah’s potential early return has provided a significant boost to Team India. However, Ravi Shastri has expressed his opinion on the matter, urging the team not to rush Bumrah’s reintegration. He pointed to the example of Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, who made an early comeback to the national side during last year’s T20 World Cup. Bumrah himself missed the T20 World Cup last year after his premature return during the Australia series leading up to the ICC tournament.

Shastri’s concern stems from the need to carefully manage Bumrah’s recovery and avoid any potential setbacks. With the World Cup approaching, it is crucial to prioritize his long-term fitness and ensure his readiness for the tournament rather than rushing him back into action.

Shastri said “He (Bumrah) is a very important cricketer. But if you rush him for the World Cup, then you might lose him for four months later on, much like Shaheen Afridi. So there’s a thin line, and it needs to be thought about,”