As India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad is set to be announced on Saturday (January 18), Jasprit Bumrah, one of India's premier fast bowlers and a vital cog in the team's success, is likely to miss out on selection.
The star pacer has been battling a recurring back injury that initially surfaced during the India-Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite undergoing rehabilitation, his availability for the marquee tournament remains uncertain, casting a shadow over India's pace attack.

Bumrah's injury woes have been a significant setback for Indian cricket. Bumrah has been instrumental in India's bowling lineup across formats, which was quite evident in the Border Gavaskar Trophy. However, his persistent back issues have kept him out of action for an extended period, raising concerns about his fitness and readiness for the high-stakes tournament.
The medical team and selectors are reportedly cautious about rushing him back into competitive cricket. Back injuries, particularly for fast bowlers, require meticulous rehabilitation and adequate recovery time to prevent aggravation.
Bumrah's workload management has become a priority to ensure his long-term availability, especially with other crucial assignments lined up in the future. There were reports that the pacer was on bed rest and may take at least six months for recovery, which was promptly denied by Bumrah himself on social media. But despite that, Bumrah's injury is a serious one and needs proper time and addressal before he steps into the field again.
Jasprit Bumrah, amid the injury woes, may miss out on the Champions Trophy selection. There are reports suggestive that the team management won't rush the pacer to action. As India step into Dubai for the tournament, Bumrah is likely to remain unfit at least for the group stages. Even if his condition improves, the pacer may not be fully fit to feature in the latter stages of the competition.
With Mohammed Shami set to feature again in the Indian team, selectors may entirely leave out Bumrah from the squad. It will definitely be a major blow for the team, especially with the pacer's recent form and class.
India's Champions Trophy 2025 campaign starts against Bangladesh on February 20.