Jasprit Bumrah declares participation in India’s Asia Cup campaign – Reports

Table of Contents

In a huge boost for Indian cricket, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has confirmed his fitness and availability for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled in the UAE from September 9–28. The 31-year-old fast bowler has reportedly informed the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee of his readiness, paving the way for his much-anticipated return to white-ball cricket after a prolonged break.

Bumrah’s return comes at a crucial time for Team India, which will defend its Asia Cup crown in the T20 format. His availability eases concerns for the team management, which has been cautiously monitoring his workload due to recurring back issues. The world’s top-ranked Test bowler last played a T20I during India’s victorious 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, where he delivered a decisive spell of 2/18 in the final against South Africa.

The selectors are set to meet on August 19 in Mumbai to finalize the 15-member squad, with Bumrah’s inclusion almost certain. “Bumrah has informed the selectors that he will be available for Asia Cup selection. The selection committee will meet and discuss it when they meet next week,” a source was quoted saying in the reports of The Indian Express.

Having enjoyed nearly 40 days of rest since his last Test appearance in England, he is expected to be fresh and fully prepared for the opening clash against hosts UAE on September 10.

Importantly, the T20 format aligns well with India’s workload management strategy for Bumrah. Unlike the demands of Test cricket, where extended spells are unavoidable, the Asia Cup will require him to bowl a maximum of four overs per game, with ample recovery time in between matches. This controlled approach enhances his chances of staying fit for the long haul while still making a significant impact.

Also READ: Will Jasprit Bumrah feature in Asia Cup 2025? Here’s the latest on his workload management

Bumrah’s carefully managed workload was a talking point during the England tour, where he was rested for two of the five Tests, including the finale at The Oval. Although the move drew criticism, the strategy now looks vindicated as India reaps the benefits of having their premier pacer fit for a marquee tournament. Across the three Tests he did play in the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, Bumrah was exceptional, bagging two five-wicket hauls and bowling close to 120 overs.

His injury history explains the management’s caution. A back spasm during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year forced him to miss four months of cricket, including the ICC Champions Trophy. Former pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has defended this approach, noting that “if you want him to have a long career, this is necessary.” Bumrah’s unorthodox action only adds to the strain on his body, making strategic rest periods vital.

Team India’s Asia Cup preparations also mirror this philosophy. Instead of holding an intense camp in Bengaluru, the squad will arrive in the UAE a few days early to acclimatize in a more relaxed manner. The move emphasizes fitness and freshness over overtraining.

With India potentially facing arch-rivals Pakistan up to three times in the tournament, Bumrah’s presence will be invaluable. His proven match-winning ability, combined with a rejuvenated squad under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, gives India a strong chance of defending their crown. For Bumrah, this tournament marks not just a comeback, but a reaffirmation of his status as India’s most trusted match-winner in crunch situations.

Also READ: “I would have convinced Mukesh Ambani”: Ex-Indian skipper questions Jasprit Bumrah’s IPL 2025 participation ahead of England Tests