Pakistan interim head coach Aqib Javed has downplayed the threat posed by star India pacer Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the high-octane clash between the arch-rivals in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
Bumrah, the spearhead of the Indian pace attack, is widely regarded as a formidable asset across all formats of cricket.
Currently, he is grappling with a back spasm that has unfortunately led to his omission from India’s squad for the ODI series against England.
The significance of Bumrah’s absence is underscored by reports from Indian media, which suggest that his recovery may also hinder his participation in the forthcoming Champions Trophy, casting a shadow over India’s bowling strength.
In light of the current situation, Aqib Javed, the interim coach of the Pakistan national cricket team, has expressed his views on Bumrah’s potential participation in the Champions Trophy 2025 and how Pakistan intends to strategize against him.
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“They [India] should be worried about Bumrah’s fitness. When you play in the Champions Trophy, the most beautiful thing about it is you can’t take any team lightly,” said Aqib.
“The top eight best teams are playing. If any team has a bowler like Bumrah, it is a plus point. But it is not like we will plan everything around him.”
Earlier, India captain Rohit Sharma said that the side was waiting update on Jasprit Bumrah’s scans as he was left out of the Playing XI for the first ODI against England
“Jasprit [Bumrah], obviously we’re waiting on some update about his scan, which is due to happen in the next few days,” he stated.
“We’re just waiting on that update, which is going to happen in the next few days, the scan. Then, probably we’ll have a little more clarity about his participation in the last ODI.”
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