Former batsman Mohammad Kaif issues a timely warning to Team India as they gear up for ICC World Cup 2023. He states that their chances of winning the Cup could be at risk without Jasprit Bumrah.
Bumrah, who hasn’t played since September last year, is set to make his return this month. He’s named in the India squad for the T20I series against Ireland, where he’ll also serve as stand-in captain.
With the pacer returning from injury, the team management opted for T20 is to assess his fitness. If all goes well, he’ll likely join the ODI team for next month’s Asia Cup. Bumrah aims to get back in form before the World Cup after a long hiatus since September last year.
Mohammad Kaif:
Mohammad Kaif asserts that India’s success in the World Cup hinges on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness as he makes his international return. He believes Bumrah will be vital for India’s chances to win the tournament for the first time since 2011.
Kaif comments, “India’s strength depends on injured players like Bumrah. His fitness will be known during the Asia Cup. If he’s fully fit, India will be strong at home.”
Speaking about the upcoming India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup, Kaif highlights the importance of Bumrah’s presence. He states, “In the absence of Bumrah, India may struggle against Pakistan. India is missing key players like KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and Rishabh Pant. Bumrah’s backup is also uncertain, and without him, we could face problems before the World Cup.
