Bumrah and Samson Doubtful for IPL 2025 Opener; Franchises Face Injury Crisis

Multiple franchises await injury clearances for key players, with Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals particularly affected ahead of IPL 2025.

March 15, 2025: Bumrah, Samson Among Key Players Awaiting Injury Clearance for IPL 2025

As IPL 2025 approaches, several franchises face major setbacks with key players awaiting fitness clearances from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Mumbai Indians’ spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and Rajasthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson are among the high-profile names whose availability for the season opener remains uncertain.

Also Read: “The Joy of Being a Captain” – Sanju Samson on Leading Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025

Bumrah’s Return Still Uncertain for Mumbai Indians

Jasprit Bumrah, who suffered a back spasm during India’s Sydney Test earlier this year, has been under rehabilitation. Having previously undergone surgery for a similar injury, his recovery is being closely monitored by BCCI Sports Science chief Nitin Patel. Though MI fans are hopeful, his participation in the team’s opening game against Chennai Super Kings on March 23 is uncertain.

Also Read: WPL 2025 Final: Delhi Capitals Face Mumbai Indians in High-Stakes Showdown

Mumbai Indians’ campaign begins with:

• March 23: vs Chennai Super Kings (Away)
• March 29: vs Gujarat Titans (Away)
• March 31: vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Home)

While Bumrah may join MI’s camp soon, he is unlikely to travel with the squad to Chennai and Ahmedabad.

Also Read: IPL 2025 Captains Confirmed: Axar Patel Joins the List as All 10 Leaders Locked In

Sanju Samson’s Wicketkeeping Role in Doubt

Sanju Samson, who underwent finger surgery after suffering a fracture during India’s T20I series against England, has reportedly cleared the fitness test for batting but requires further clearance for wicketkeeping duties. Rajasthan Royals, who begin their campaign on March 23 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, may rely on Dhruv Jurel behind the stumps if Samson isn’t fully fit.

Other Injured Players Awaiting Clearance

• Mayank Yadav (LSG): Out since October 2024 due to back stress, remains under NCA observation.
• Avesh Khan (LSG): Recovering from knee cartilage issues post-Ranji Trophy campaign in January.
• Mohsin Khan (LSG): Last played in December 2024 but bowled only 5.5 overs in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match.

Lucknow Super Giants remain optimistic that at least two of their three injured pacers will be fit for their opening game against Delhi Capitals on March 24.

What This Means for IPL 2025

The absence of key players at the start of the season could disrupt team strategies, forcing franchises to find quick replacements. With the tournament kicking off in a high-stakes opening match between MI and CSK, all eyes will be on the NCA’s final fitness reports in the coming days.

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