With the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup nearing, Team India’s management will be attempting to determine the best permutations and combinations for the showpiece event. India last won an Apex Cricket Council trophy, the Champions Trophy, in 2013. Since then, they have been either runners-up, last-four finishes, or, in the case of the 20-20 World Cup 2021, crashing out in the first stage.
India, the hosts of the ODI World Cup 2023, has also experienced some setbacks. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been out since last year and will miss the Indian T20 League, Test Championship, and Asia Cup. Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is recovering from injuries sustained in a car accident.
Shreyas Iyer is also doubtful of playing the game for a few months now due to a back injury. Former Sri Lanka cricketer Dilhara Fernando believes Bumrah’s absence will cost India dearly in the ODI World Cup, and that Rohit Sharma will desperately need his services.
“Bumrah is just amazing. If you look at India’s performances in the last five years, Bumrah has played a very big role. He has been leading the pace attack really well. He is a game-changer. I am not sure about his injury updates, but he will be a key player for India in the World Cup. Rohit will need him in the World Cup. India and Rohit will really need him in the World Cup”, Fernando told the Times of India.
Bumrah in Indian conditions is another level: Dilhara Fernando
Bumrah’s expected recovery time is a hot topic in Indian cricket. After being rushed twice in the past, the Indian Cricket Board is not looking to rush things this time. The star India pacer underwent back surgery in New Zealand recently, and his recovery is being closely monitored by National Cricket Academy head VVS Laxman.
“Bumrah in Indian conditions is another level. He is a nightmare for the opposition. India’s pace attack looks good, and India are top contenders at the World Cup. Bumrah and Rohit know each other closely and have a good camaraderie, so Rohit would want Bumrah badly in the World Cup. IPL and Mumbai Indians have played a big role in Bumrah’s career. Rohit and Bumrah have a good mutual understanding, especially in tough conditions. Bumrah will be key for India as well as for Rohit,” Fernando further added.
