"It Hurts, But I Accept It": Suryakumar Yadav on Champions Trophy Snub, Eyes On T20I format

Suryakumar Yadav, who is unfathomably proficient at T20 cricket and the captain of Team India in T20 Format, is potentially amenable to not being picked for the Champions Trophy team. Surya  wholly invested in leading India in the five T20I games against England that start on Wednesday, even though he won't be playing in the champions trophy.

Suryakumar( SKY) , spoke honestly about how being left out does sting a bit. surya  said it would obviously bother him because if he had played better, he would've made the group. But since he didn't, he's quite accepting of accepting that. surya  also thinks the team chosen for the Champions Trophy is solid because those players have been conjoining it in ODIs for India. The group is looking top rate, he said, recognizing the players who got selected. Then, to explain the details on why he might not have been picked, it is certainly obvious that his ODI game hasn't been as amazing as his T20 skills. In 37 ODI matches, he's only scored 773 runs, which averages out to 25.76 per game, not demonstrating the full extent of his talents.

Suryakumar Yadav said "If I do well, I would have been in Champions Trophy - if I don't do well, it's important to accept that - if you see the squad, its looking really good, they are all good performers - I am very happy for them - it hurts to think that I have not done well - if I had done well, I would have stayed there"

ALSO READ: BCCI Questions Sanju Samson's Commitment: “Why Didn’t You Join the Camp If KCA Asked You To?”

Suryakumar thinks that having Bumrah and Shami around is a major plus for India's chances. Surya remembered how amazing they were in the 2023 ODI World Cup and is hoping they'll be victorious in the Champions Trophy too. It's a bit unclear why, but Jasprit Bumrah can't play in the T20I series against England because of back troubles since the Sydney Test. Still, Suryakumar is staying positive about seeing Bumrah team with Shami in the Champions Trophy. It may seem odd, but the T20I series against England is also a chance for Suryakumar to show what he can do and try hard to keep his place in the ODI team. Mister Yadav's really set on helping the team win and making completely certain he's chosen again.

The ICC Champions Trophy is set to make its much-anticipated return after an eight-year hiatus, commencing on February 19, 2025, with matches hosted in Pakistan and the UAE (for India's fixtures). India, known for its remarkable consistency and dominance on the global stage, enters the tournament as one of the strongest contenders, ready to stake its claim in this ultimate test of cricketing excellence. But the recently released Indian squad for the forthcoming tournament has sparked a lot of talk and discussion amongst the game's followers.

Though it had its own set of positives, some aspects could hinder their chances to scalp their second title of the tournament. Keeping in mind the team's recent performances post their triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup has been alarming for their future performances. Here, we look at the three factors that could not lead India to a victorious 2025 Champions Trophy run.

India 15-man squad for Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana (Reserve)

The 2025 edition of the ICC Champions Trophy kickstarts on 19 February, comprising an enticing clash between the eight powerhouse countries of the sport. Making a comeback after eight years, the league is scheduled to happen in the defending champions' backyard, Pakistan. In addition, the UAE will be the second host country for India matches.

The Indian Cricket Team arranged their squad for the tournament yesterday, and some intriguing and shocking aspects came up from them, stirring a lot of talk and discussion amongst the Indian cricket fanatics. Taking away the good elements from the respective side, we dissect the three takeaways that can help lead India to their second-ever ICC Champions Trophy title. 

India 15-man squad for Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana (Reserve)

Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional bowling performances have solidified his status as one of cricket’s greatest. In the recently concluded 5-match Test series in Australia, Bumrah claimed an incredible 32 wickets, earning him the Player of the Series award. While the Indian team had its ups and downs, Bumrah’s brilliance shone through, drawing praise from former players and commentators who have hailed him as one of the best bowlers across formats—be it T20s, ODIs, or Tests.

Bumrah’s rise over the years has been remarkable. Despite facing challenges, he has continued to improve and achieve great success. Cricket legends like Justin Langer have compared him to Malcolm Marshall, praising his ability to perform well on any pitch and in any situation. Beyond cricket, Bumrah’s popularity has spread worldwide. This was recently seen when Coldplay’s lead singer, Chris Martin, mentioned him during a concert at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, showing how his fame has reached beyond the world of cricket.

Chris Martin’s Shoutout to Jasprit Bumrah

During Coldplay’s concert on the 18th of January, the crowd at the DY Patil Stadium was treated to a special moment. As Chris Martin performed one of the band’s most popular songs, ‘A Sky Full of Stars,’ he paused mid-performance to give a shoutout to Jasprit Bumrah. The unexpected mention sent the crowd into a frenzy, as Martin humorously remarked, “Hold on, we have to finish the show because Jasprit Bumrah wants to come and play backstage.”

He then added with a laugh, “He says he needs to bowl at me now.” The crowd erupted with cheers, thrilled at the acknowledgment of the Indian cricketer by one of the world’s most famous musicians. This moment highlighted how Bumrah has become a global icon, celebrated not just on the cricket field but also in pop culture.

Watch the Viral Moment

JASPRIT BUMRAH, THE ICON...!!!

- Chris Martin mentions Bumrah during the Coldplay Concert in Mumbai. ♥️ pic.twitter.com/jK1MEjeFwJ

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 18, 2025

The audience at the concert went wild when Chris Martin mentioned Jasprit Bumrah’s name. Fans were left wondering if the cricketer was present at the event, especially after Martin teased that Bumrah might join them backstage. However, it was later clarified that Bumrah was not at the venue, and Martin’s shoutout was simply an acknowledgment of his popularity. The concert concluded on a high note, leaving fans buzzing about the surprise moment.

Also Read: Bumrah's Back Injury Puts His 2025 Champions Trophy Participation in Doubt

Jasprit Bumrah is currently recovering from a back injury he suffered during the fifth Test at Sydney. In the second session, he experienced back spasms and left the field for scans, ruling him out of bowling for the rest of the match.

Despite this setback, Bumrah has been named in India’s squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, though his fitness remains uncertain. In his absence, Harshit Rana stepped in for the three-match ODI series against England. The Indian team management is closely monitoring Bumrah’s recovery, and a final decision on his participation in the Champions Trophy will be made closer to the tournament.

Finally, the BCCI has announced the much-awaited Indian squads for the upcoming home ODI series against England and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Indian star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the home ODI series.

Before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host between February 19 and March 9, 2025, India will host England for the five-match T20I series and three-match ODI series, starting on February 22 and March 6, respectively. 

The Indian team management is confident enough about Jasprit Bumrah’s presence for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where India will start their campaign on February 20 with the Group A match against Bangladesh. However, the 31-year-old Indian fast bowler is doubtful for the home ODI series against England. During the press conference, the Indian captain Rohit Sharma and the chief selector Ajit Agarkar pointed out that they weren't sure enough about Bumrah's status for the upcoming home ODI series. 

See Also: Dinesh Karthik reasons why in-form Karun Nair can't be added to Indian ODI team

Jasprit Bumrah was injured during the last Test in Australia

During the recently concluded Australia tour, Jasprit Bumrah fought hard against the ultra-pressure workload management and couldn’t bowl in the last innings of the last Test at Sydney due to back spasms. He is recovering from the injury as the fast bowler is eyeing the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Bumrah is especially doubtful for the first two ODIs against England. If he remains unfit during the home ODI series against England, Harshit Rana is ready to replace him in the squad. 

Nagpur, Cuttack, and Ahmedabad are set to host three upcoming ODIs against England on February 6, 9, and 12, respectively. 

Mohammed Shami is ready for ODI return, Mohammed Siraj dropped

Another Indian senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami is ready to return to international cricket after more than a year during the upcoming home T20I series against England. Shami has also been named in the ODI squad against England and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 34-year-old right-arm fast bowler last played an ODI during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 Final against Australia, which was also his last international match.

On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj will miss both the upcoming ODI challenges, the home series against England, and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 25-year-old left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has played eight ODIs and taken 12 wickets, is ready for the upcoming ODI challenges.

Jasprit Bumrah Set to Be Named Rohit Sharma's Deputy for Champions Trophy

In a move that underscores the leadership depth in Indian cricket, reports suggest that Jasprit Bumrah is set to be named Rohit Sharma's deputy for the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy. The tournament, scheduled to be held later this year, will see Bumrah's role expanded beyond his match-winning abilities as a bowler, placing him in a critical leadership position.

Bumrah's Leadership Evolution

Jasprit Bumrah has long been one of India's most dependable players across formats. His remarkable consistency, calm demeanor, and tactical understanding make him a natural choice for the vice-captaincy. Bumrah has already showcased leadership qualities during his tenure as captain in select matches, earning praise from teammates and management alike. Entrusting him with the vice-captaincy highlights the faith the team management has in his ability to guide the squad both on and off the field.

Shubman Gill: The Standby Leader

While Bumrah remains the primary candidate for the vice-captain's role, fitness concerns could alter plans. Bumrah has faced setbacks in the past due to injuries, and should any issues resurface, Shubman Gill is likely to take over the role. Gill, who has emerged as one of India's most reliable top-order batters, has displayed exceptional maturity and composure in his performances. His leadership potential has been evident through his captaincy roles in domestic cricket and his ability to handle pressure situations with confidence.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma set to lead India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Balancing Experience and Youth

This decision reflects the Indian cricket team's approach of balancing experience with youth. Rohit Sharma brings years of leadership experience, while Bumrah and Gill represent the next generation of Indian cricket. Grooming them for leadership roles ensures a seamless transition for the team's future.

With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, the focus will be on maintaining the fitness and form of key players. Bumrah's return to international cricket after an extended injury layoff has been a major boost for India. His experience and strategic thinking will be crucial in guiding the team through high-pressure situations in the tournament. Should Bumrah lead alongside Rohit or Gill step into the deputy's role, the Indian team will be well-equipped with a blend of experience, talent, and leadership to aim for the trophy. All eyes will now be on the official announcement and  fans eagerly await to see how this leadership dynamic shapes up for Team India in their quest for glory.

Jasprit Bumrah has been very much in discussion on social media recently. He is in the debate because the Champions Trophy is ahead and he was injured during the Australia tour. So, it may or may not be his injury took a little more time to recover.

Meanwhile, TOI reported that Jasprit Bumrah has been told to rest, and his return to cricket seems impossible as of now.

Report claims unnamed sources, report does not disclose source but claims bed rest for Jasprit Bumrah. 

The report was, “Bumrah could go to the Centre of Excellence next week but right now there is no fixed date yet. He has been advised to rest at home to help the muscles recover and the swallowing to subside”.

Amidst all this, Jasprit Bumrah quoted a tweet saying, “I know fake news is easy to spread but this made me laugh. Sources unreliable”.

Here’s the Tweet

I know fake news is easy to spread but this made me laugh 😂. Sources unreliable 😂 https://t.co/nEizLdES2h

— Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) January 15, 2025

The report said that Jasprit Bumrah has swelling, and due to this the recovery will take more time than expected because that is a grade 1 injury, but Jasprit Bumrah himself tweeted that the news was false and fake.

Also Read: Australia get better news before Champions Trophy with revised schedule for Sri Lanka tour

So, now can it be estimated that Jasprit Bumrah will recover till the Champions Trophy and he will also be selected in the squad. As BCCI is yet to announce their Champions Trophy squad. 

Jasprit Bumrah, India's premier fast bowler, has been reportedly advised to take complete bed rest due to swelling in his back. This development comes as a potential setback for the Indian cricket team, which is gearing up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Known for his match-winning performances across formats, Bumrah’s fitness is crucial for India's chances in the high-stakes tournament.

Also Read: Captain Rohit Sharma Travels to Pakistan?

Current Situation

As per a report in the Times of India, Bumrah’s condition is being closely monitored by the BCCI. He has been asked to rest at home to allow his muscles to recover and the swelling to subside. Once the swelling reduces, further steps in his recovery plan will be decided. Although Bumrah is expected to report to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further evaluation, no specific date has been confirmed for his arrival.

This comes after a demanding cricketing season, including the recently concluded tour of Australia, where Bumrah bowled extensively. His workload, especially during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, appears to have taken a toll on his body, where he bowled over 150 overs during the series.

Also Read: 3 Big Changes India Needs to Make in Test Cricket to Avoid Agonizing Defeats

Concerns About His Condition

Experts and analysts are raising concerns about the severity of Bumrah's condition. Swelling in the back can sometimes indicate underlying issues such as muscle tears or even disc bulges, depending on the grade of the injury. Strength and conditioning coach Ramji Srinivasan, speaking about such cases, stated that recovery timelines often depend on the extent of the injury and the individual’s ability to rehabilitate effectively.

“Bed rest doesn’t sound good,” an unnamed source told the Times of India, further expressing hope that the injury isn’t a higher-grade swelling or a disc-related issue. Such injuries could sideline Bumrah for an extended period, making it imperative to handle his recovery with utmost caution.

The BCCI is reportedly taking a cautious approach, ensuring that Bumrah’s recovery is not rushed. The board has even requested an extension of the ICC squad submission deadline from January 12 to January 19 to give Bumrah additional time to recover and submit his medical reports. The management is clear that they want Bumrah to return to the field only when he is 100% fit, as fielding him prematurely could risk aggravating his condition.

Also Read: "India Would Have Won the Series If..." – R. Ashwin Opens Up on India's BGT 2024-25 Series Loss

Jasprit Bumrah’s injury setback came during the intense final match of the Border-Gavaskar series in Sydney, a crucial test for India, as they had a chance to level the series 2-2. On the second day of the match, while India was bowling in their first innings, Bumrah felt a sharp discomfort in his back. Initially, it was thought to be a minor issue, but after a scan, it was confirmed to be a back spasm. This injury quickly became a cause for concern, as Bumrah had been a key performer throughout the series, taking 34 wickets at an astonishing average of just 13, making him virtually unplayable for the opposition.

Jasprit Bumrah has been advised bed rest at home and will remain on rest until the swelling subsides. He returned from Australia last week and is on rest but his situation is not well right now. 

Jasprit Bumrah has to report to the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, but the date is not yet decided. 

A source said that “Bumrah could go to the Centre of Excellence next week but right now there is no fixed date yet. He has been advised to rest at home to help the muscles recover and the swallowing to subside”.

Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah: ICC Men’s Player of the Month for December 2024

As of now, Jasprit Bumrah has swelling in his back, and at this stage, he will not back to the field. Sources clear that, there is no clarity on his exact diagnosis but if it’s something more than just a swelling then his chance to get back in cricket is impossible. 

The source added to their word, “Bed rest doesn’t sound good. I hope it’s not a disc bulge or a muscle swelling which is of a higher grade. The approach has to be similar to him, wrap him in cotton wool and preserve the talent like him”.

No Certainty in Champions Trophy 2025

Due to all these, Jasprit Bumrah’s selection in the Champions Trophy is also disc like his injury. 

Almost all other team have announced their squad for the Champions Trophy starting from 19th February but BCCI is yet to announce as may or may not be they are waiting for NAC clarification over Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah’s recovery.

Also, BCCI is yet to select their ODI squad for the upcoming ODI series between India and England, starting from 6th February. 

Jasprit Bumrah Crowned ICC Men's Player of the Month for December 2024

Jasprit Bumrah just excellently named ICC Men's Player of the Month for December 2024, and everyone into cricket is focused on celebrating him. Mr. Bumrah was amazing in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India and Australia played against each other, and his skills were a very big reason India did so well. Getting this major award is proof of how incredible he played.

Bumrah, the world’s number-one ranked Test bowler, ended the year 2024 with a flourish. Across three Test outings in December, he claimed an astounding 22 wickets at an average of 14.22, reaffirming his status as a bowling maestro. His match-winning spells in Adelaide (4 for 61), Brisbane (6 for 76), and Melbourne (9 wickets in the match) were nothing short of sensational. The Melbourne Test, in particular, was a highlight of Bumrah's career. His nine-wicket haul not only secured a crucial victory for India but also elevated him to the highest rating points tally ever achieved by an Indian bowler in ICC Test rankings.

Say hello 👋 to the ICC Men's Player of the Month for December 2024! 🔝

A round of applause for Jasprit Bumrah! 👏 👏 #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/2ZpYHVv2L1

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2025

ALSO READ: Indian captain Rohit Sharma may have to travel to Pakistan

A Year to Remember

Despite a back spasm stopping him from bowling in the second innings of the Sydney Test, Bumrah's influence on the series was clear. Australia was coming back strong, but Bumrah's bowling really held India up. He was amazing at finding and using the Australian team's weak spots, and his skill at a little adjusting to different conditions made a major difference.

The 31-year-old speedster concluded the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with 32 wickets across five Tests, an incredible feat that has solidified his position as one of the premier fast bowlers in the history of the game. His stellar performances in December not only earned him the Player of the Month award but also put him in strong contention for the coveted Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year.

A Bright Future Ahead

Bumrah's saying thank you and feeling pumped about how the year ended up being really great. He mentioned, To end the year on such a high note is truly special. It's been a challenging series but I'm proud of what we achieved as a team. Today, he's planning for the future to keep playing very good in the next games and keep making his mark in cricket around the world.

Cricket enthusiasts and experts alike have heaped praise on Bumrah for his extraordinary skills and unyielding spirit. His performances have not only delighted Indian fans but have also earned respect from cricketing legends worldwide. As 2025 begins, the cricketing fraternity will watch closely to see how Jasprit Bumrah’s journey unfolds. For now, the Player of the Month crown is a well-deserved feather in the cap of this remarkable bowler.