January 5, 2025: Indian seamer Prasidh Krishna has confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah experienced a back spasm on the second day of the fifth and final Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Bumrah, who has been in exceptional form throughout the Border-Gavaskar series, was forced to undergo scans due to the injury. Speaking during a press conference, Krishna shared that the medical team is closely monitoring Bumrah’s condition:
“Yes, he had a back spasm, he had gone for scans. The medical team is monitoring him, so we will know whenever the medical team gets back to us,” Krishna stated.
Bumrah, who has been India’s standout performer with the ball in this series, has taken 32 wickets so far, making him the highest wicket-taker for India in a Test series against Australia on Australian soil. His record-breaking performance includes three five-wicket hauls, with his best bowling figures being 6/76. Bumrah’s tally of 32 wickets surpassed the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi’s record of 31 wickets from the 1977-78 tour to Australia.
Bumrah’s contribution on Day 2 of the fifth Test was significant, as he claimed 2/33 in 10 overs before he was forced off the field due to the back spasm. His departure left a gap in India’s bowling attack, and Virat Kohli had to step in as captain in the absence of Rohit Sharma, who had already opted out of the playing XI for the Test due to his own form-related concerns. Kohli’s leadership during the session showed the team’s resilience and adaptability in a high-pressure situation.
Bumrah’s fitness remains a key concern, as there is uncertainty about whether he will be able to bowl in India’s second innings. The Indian physios are carefully assessing his condition, and a final decision will be made based on his health and the team’s needs. Given Bumrah’s importance to India’s bowling attack, his recovery will be closely monitored, with the aim of ensuring that he can contribute to the team’s effort to level the series
The match remains finely poised as India seeks to build on their 145-run lead heading into Day 3. While Bumrah’s fitness is a major concern, Pant’s counterattack and contributions from the middle order have given India a fighting chance to extend their advantage. With the series still alive at 2-1 in Australia’s favour, this final Test is crucial for both teams, with India hoping to level the series and improve their position in the World Test Championship standings.
As the match progresses, the key focus will be on Bumrah’s recovery and whether he can return to the field to support India’s bowling attack, especially considering his importance to India’s success in this Test series. The next few days will be pivotal for both teams, and India will look to capitalize on their current position and push for a strong finish to the series.
