Bumrah’s back: Mumbai Indians receive timely reinforcement

Jasprit Bumrah is all set to return to the cricketing field after a lengthy injury break, with Mumbai Indians (MI) confirming his availability for their upcoming clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday, April 7.

“He is available,” MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirmed ahead of their fifth match of the season, which will be their second at home. “He’s training today, and he should be ready for tomorrow.”

Bumrah landed in Mumbai on Saturday night (April 5) after completing his rehabilitation and fitness clearance at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He was assessed by MI’s medical staff and began bowling in practice immediately, even sending down a few deliveries to an injured Rohit Sharma during a net session at Wankhede on Sunday evening.

Jayawardene expressed his excitement at Bumrah’s return. “Boom is coming back after a significant layoff, so we’ll ease him in and not put too much pressure on him right away. But knowing Jasprit, he’ll be ready to go. We’re thrilled to have him back with the squad.”

The MI coach also highlighted Bumrah’s leadership value in the bowling unit. “His presence in the middle is vital—not just for his bowling but also the guidance he provides to other bowlers like Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar.”

Bumrah had been sidelined since the final Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in January 2024. Following multiple visits to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, he was finally given the green light to join MI midway through the IPL 2025 season.

His return couldn’t have come at a more crucial juncture. MI, who have managed just one win in their first four games, are desperate to revive their campaign and stay in contention for the playoffs. Bumrah’s arrival will significantly strengthen the bowling attack.

In IPL 2024, Bumrah finished as the third-highest wicket-taker with 20 wickets in 13 games and topped the economy charts among the top 20 bowlers with an impressive 6.48. He also bagged a memorable five-wicket haul against RCB at the same venue last season. MI will be hoping for a repeat performance when the two sides meet on Monday night.