Mumbai, April 7: India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah is officially back in action. The Mumbai Indians (MI) spearhead is all set to make his much-anticipated return during MI’s upcoming IPL 2025 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.
Bumrah’s comeback has already stolen the spotlight from the marquee Rohit Sharma vs Virat Kohli showdown, with MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirming his availability during the pre-match press conference.
“He is bowling today and all good. We’re very happy to have him back,” said Jayawardene, adding that Bumrah’s presence alone brings leadership and strategic value to the squad.
The ace pacer has been on the sidelines since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia earlier this year, where he ended as the highest wicket-taker with 32 scalps. However, a stress injury during the final Test in Sydney forced him out of subsequent white-ball series, including the ICC Champions Trophy, both of which India won.
Following clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Bumrah joined the MI camp on Saturday. His return is expected to offer a massive boost to a struggling MI side that has lost three of its first four games, relying heavily on uncapped bowlers like Vignesh Puthur, Ashwani Kumar, and Satyanarayana Raju in his absence.
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Jayawardene stressed on giving Bumrah space as he returns from a long layoff but remains confident:
“Knowing Jasprit, he will be up for it. His bowling, experience and presence on the field will uplift the team.”
🔹 Bumrah by the Numbers:
IPL Matches: 133
Wickets: 165
Best Figures: 5/21
IPL 2024 Performance: 20 wickets in 13 matches (MI’s top wicket-taker)
Missed IPL 2023 due to back surgery
The BCCI has been closely managing his fitness, with an eye on India’s upcoming five-Test tour of England starting June — a key part of India’s WTC 2025-27 campaign.
Bumrah’s return to the MI XI is expected to not only strengthen their bowling but also provide mentorship to the younger players, especially in pressure games like the upcoming clash against RCB. All eyes will be on Wankhede as one of India’s most lethal fast bowlers takes the field again.
