Former Indian opener feels India will have to get used to living without Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah (Source: Twitter)

Former Indian opener Akash Chopra feels that India will have to get used to playing without Jasprit Bumrah due to his recent injury woes. The speedster was not originally named in India’s 16-member squad for the ODI series against Sri Lanka but was added to the squad a few days back. However, he was removed from the squad a day ahead of the first ODI to be played in Guwahati on Tuesday.

In a video shared on his Youtube channel, Chopra was asked about his thoughts on Jasprit Bumrah’s sudden exclusion and his possible backup.

"I am slightly worried because he has not played cricket since September. Perhaps it's time to get ready to live without Bumrah. He played an odd match in between where he got injured and didn't come back. He then comes and goes back again,” said Chopra.

Chopra further said that his repeated absence is a worrying sign for the team in the world cup year.

"His name comes in the team and then he is not there. He was a late inclusion here and was out again. It's not a good story because it is a World Cup year and you have already missed the last World Cup,” he added.

The star seamer missed out on important multi-national tournaments Asia Cup and the 20-20 World Cup last year. Talking about his possible backups, Chopra said that India have several options like Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh.

There is no one like Bumrah: Aakash Chorpa

"Although there is no one like Bumrah and will not be there as well at this point in time, the good thing is that you have Mohammed Siraj - the way his stature has grown, Umran Malik is doing well, Mohammad Shami does well in ODIs, Arshdeep Singh is ready, I am not sure about Prasidh Krishna's injury but he is also looking okay."

The 45-year-old further said that ‘Men-in-Blue’ have to get used to playing without Bumrah, although his presence will enhance India’s chances at the World Cup.

"We will be able to manage fast bowling. It's not that it will not happen. I am not pinning my hopes that India can only win if Bumrah is there. The chances improve if he is there but what can you do if he is not there. There have been too many injuries. If that's the case, you start thinking of a life without him,” he concluded.