With the Indian team for the Asia Cup 2025 officially announced, chief selector Ajit Agarkar shed light on the careful management of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Agarkar emphasized that the selectors and support staff are focused on ensuring Bumrah remains fit for the biggest tournaments ahead.
“I don’t think there’s any written plan at the moment,” Agarkar clarified while speaking about Bumrah’s workload.
Bumrah’s Fitness in Focus
Agarkar mentioned that the discussions about Bumrah’s fitness are not new but a constant process involving team management and medical staff.
“Obviously, there’s been a written plan after the England series as well. The team management, the physios, or the people concerned are always in touch. It’s not just now. Even before his injury, we’ve tried to look after him because we know how valuable he is,” he explained.
The chief selector also stressed the importance of keeping Bumrah available for crucial tournaments.
“Clearly, we want him available for all the big games. I know international cricket, every game is a big game, but there are World Cups, there are Champions Trophies or big series like England or Australia, where you want him available all the time,” he said.
Managing Injuries with Extra Care
Reflecting on Bumrah’s injury concerns in recent years, Agarkar highlighted the additional monitoring in place.
“Most fast bowlers are monitored, and yes, because he’s picked up an injury over the last two or three years, there’s extra care taken on how unique and how special he is, and it won’t change. It won’t change whether it’s this series or maybe the next six months,” Agarkar stated.
He added that Bumrah’s participation will always be decided after consultation with the medical team.
“As we go along, how he’s feeling, when we require him as a team, which is probably the most important thing and along with the physios and the trainers, those things are monitored anyway, but we hope that he’s available more often than not,” Agarkar said.
India’s Asia Cup Journey
Team India will begin their Asia Cup campaign against the UAE on September 10. The high-stakes clash with Pakistan is set for September 14, and both fixtures are scheduled in Dubai. Their final group-stage encounter will be against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.
If India secures a spot in the Super 4, matches will be played across Abu Dhabi and Dubai from September 20 to 26, with the final to be held in Dubai on September 28.
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