Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who recently suffered from back spasms, is likely to be rested for most of India’s home white-ball series against England. The move is part of a strategy to ensure Bumrah’s fitness ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, which starts on February 19. Bumrah, who had an outstanding performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, claiming 32 wickets, was unable to bowl in the final innings due to the injury. His back spasms are believed to be linked to his heavy workload during the series, having bowled over 150 overs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is focused on managing his rehabilitation so that he’s in optimal condition for the Champions Trophy, where his presence will be crucial to India’s success.

The extent of Bumrah’s injury remains unclear as the grade of his back spasm has not been confirmed yet. Sources suggest that if the injury is classified as Grade 1, he would require two to three weeks of rehabilitation before returning to play. For a Grade 2 injury, the recovery period could extend to six weeks, while a Grade 3 injury, which is the most severe, would necessitate up to three months of rest. Bumrah had been expected to participate in the upcoming series against England, especially in the ODIs, but his injury may affect his availability. India’s first match in the Champions Trophy will be against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. Bumrah’s fitness will determine his participation in the England series, which includes five T20Is and three ODIs starting January 22.