Pakistan Interim Coach Aaqib Javed Downplays Bumrah’s Threat Ahead of CT 2025

February 6, 2025: Pakistan’s interim head coach Aaqib Javed has brushed aside concerns about the threat posed by India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, ahead of their highly anticipated Champions Trophy clash. Despite Bumrah’s history of intimidating performances, including his brilliant spell against Australia, Javed believes that Pakistan should not plan solely around the Indian pacer.

Bumrah, who had been sidelined due to back spasms during India’s 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign, remains a subject of fitness concerns as the Champions Trophy approaches. After his impressive performances in 2024, where he was the leading wicket-taker in international cricket, speculation has been rife about his participation in the tournament. However, Javed remains unfazed.

In a recent press conference, Javed acknowledged Bumrah’s quality but emphasized that Pakistan would not be specifically focusing on him. “When you play Champions Trophy, the most beautiful thing about it is you can’t take any team lightly. 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,” Javed said.

India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, provided a fitness update, confirming that the team was awaiting the results of Bumrah’s scan, which would give them more clarity on his participation in the tournament. “Jasprit, obviously, we’re waiting on some update about his scan, which is due to happen in the next few days,” said Rohit during the pre-match press conference ahead of India’s ODI against England.

Despite Bumrah’s recent fitness struggles, his impact on the game cannot be understated. In 2024, he was the highest wicket-taker in international cricket with 86 wickets in 21 matches at an average of 13.76, including four four-wicket hauls and five five-wicket hauls. His stellar year included exceptional performances in Tests, where he took 71 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 14.92.

As the Champions Trophy draws near, all eyes will be on Bumrah’s fitness and whether he will be available to play against Pakistan in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.