Former England Coach David Lloyd Emphasizes ODI Challenge for Bumrah’s Replacement
February 15, 2025: As Team India gears up for the Champions Trophy 2025, a major challenge looms over the squad—the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out due to a back injury. The team’s bowling attack will now rely on Arshdeep Singh, who is set to step into the playing XI in Bumrah’s place. However, former England coach David ‘Bumble’ Lloyd has sent a stern warning to the young left-arm pacer, emphasizing the significant transition from T20 cricket to the demands of ODIs.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: Siraj’s Omission, Jaiswal’s Snub & A Spin-Heavy Gamble-Explained
“This is not T20, mate” – Lloyd’s Tough Message
Speaking on TalkSport Cricket, Lloyd acknowledged that Arshdeep’s inclusion is a huge opportunity, but replacing the world’s best fast bowler comes with immense pressure.
“It’s a great opportunity for someone to come in, someone who wouldn’t normally make the team. But you can’t get away from the fact that Bumrah is the best bowler in the world, and if he isn’t playing for you, you’ve got a problem,” said Lloyd.
He further warned Arshdeep about the massive shift in workload between T20Is and ODIs.
“Massive difference – four overs to ten. If you’re the opposition, test him out; really get into him,” Lloyd advised.
“‘This is not T20, mate. This is not a little party, you’ve got to come back and come back again.’ That will be something he won’t be used to.”
Arshdeep’s Challenge in Champions Trophy 2025
Arshdeep Singh, India’s highest-ever wicket-taker in T20Is, has only played nine ODIs so far, picking up 14 wickets at an average of 23.
He is one of three frontline pacers in India’s squad for the Champions Trophy, alongside the experienced Mohammed Shami and the recently-debuted Harshit Rana. However, India’s decision to pick five spinners highlights their strategy for the conditions in Dubai and the short format of the tournament.
Despite showing glimpses of promise, Arshdeep played only one match in the recent three-game ODI series against England, with Shami playing two and Rana featuring in all three games.
India’s Strategy Without Bumrah
The absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who was recently named ICC Cricketer of the Year for 2024, is a major setback for Team India. Bumrah was in sublime form, having won:
🏆 Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup 2024
🏆 Player of the Series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
His impact in multi-nation tournaments has been unparalleled, and his absence puts added pressure on the pace attack, which will likely feature Shami and Arshdeep as frontline seamers, with Hardik Pandya as the third seam option.
As India embarks on their Champions Trophy campaign, all eyes will be on Arshdeep Singh’s ability to handle the ODI workload and step up in the absence of one of the greatest fast bowlers in the world.
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