IND vs NZ 2024: Jasprit Bumrah's 3rd Test Absence Explained

The BCCI has stated that Jasprit Bumrah, the captain of the Indian speed bowling attack, will miss the third and final Test match against New Zealand in Mumbai because of an unresolved viral illness. This announcement comes after rumours circulated earlier this week that Bumrah was only participating in fielding drills and light physical routines at Wankhede Stadium, raising concerns over his availability.

According to India captain Rohit Sharma, Bumrah was "not well" and Mohammed Siraj took his place in the squad. During the toss, Rohit revealed, "We understand that we haven't played well in this series. Looks like a good pitch. Hopefully, we can restrict them as quickly as possible. Our focus is on this Test match. Bumrah is not well, Siraj comes in for him." 

Jasprit Bumrah injury blow:

BCCI dropped a statement on X, "Mr Jasprit Bumrah has not fully recovered from his viral illness. He was unavailable for selection for the third Test in Mumbai." Given his performance this season, Bumrah's absence from the last Test is a blow for India. He has participated in all four of the home series' Test matches thus far, bowling the third-most overs (90) and taking the third-highest number of wickets (14).

UPDATE:

Mr Jasprit Bumrah has not fully recovered from his viral illness. He was unavailable for selection for the third Test in Mumbai.#TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank

— BCCI (@BCCI) November 1, 2024

The team management wants Bumrah to be energized and fresh for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy, hence it was previously stated that the recently named vice-captain would be granted time off to manage his workload. In addition, Bumrah is likely to play a bigger part when Rohit Sharma is expected to miss the November series opener in Perth.

Even assistant coach Abhishek Nayar emphasized that India's prior games had not lasted the entire five days, so Bumrah's workload was not greatly affected. Prior to his sickness, there were no obvious indications that Bumrah might miss the last Test. But after his viral illness was confirmed, things took a different turn.

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