‘If We Rush Him, He Could Break Down Again’: Major Jasprit Bumrah Injury Update Casts Doubt Over Sri Lanka Tests

India’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka have suffered another major setback, with star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah reportedly unlikely to feature in the two-match series due to an ongoing knee injury.

Although Bumrah was included in India’s squad with his selection marked as subject to fitness, multiple media reports suggest the pace spearhead has failed to recover in time, forcing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to adopt a cautious approach.

The two-Test series begins on August 15 and forms part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.

Bumrah’s Recovery Taking Longer Than Expected

According to a report by The Indian Express, Bumrah continues to undergo rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) after aggravating a pre-existing knee problem during the ODI series against England.

The injury occurred while fielding in the second ODI at Cardiff, where he suffered an impact to his left knee.

The report states that the latest setback worsened an issue that had already troubled the fast bowler since the T20 World Cup 2026.

Although Bumrah was expected to resume bowling after receiving medical treatment, his rehabilitation programme reportedly did not progress as planned, with medical staff advising additional rest.

A source quoted by the publication said:“The solution is not a stop-gap. If we rush him now, then there is a strong chance he could break down again.”

BCCI Focuses on Long-Term Fitness

While the exact nature and severity of Bumrah’s injury have not been officially disclosed, the BCCI appears determined to avoid risking one of India’s most valuable players.

Earlier this year, Bumrah had also undergone fitness assessments at the Centre of Excellence before receiving clearance to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.

He went on to play 13 matches for the Mumbai Indians, although he missed the franchise’s final fixture.

The latest injury concern has now delayed his expected return to international cricket.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma Sends Strong Fitness Warning Ahead of England ODIs… India Captain Begins Batting Grind After Family Break

India’s Injury List Continues to Grow

Bumrah’s absence would further weaken India’s squad, which is already dealing with multiple fitness setbacks ahead of the Sri Lanka tour.

Several players are currently unavailable due to injuries, including:

• Harshit Rana (hamstring injury)
• Nitish Kumar Reddy (quadriceps injury)
• Washington Sundar (hamstring injury, ruled out of the first Test)
• Akash Deep (recovering from stress reactions in his back)

The growing injury list presents a significant challenge for captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir as they prepare for an important overseas assignment.

Sri Lanka Series Crucial for WTC Campaign

India will open the series against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium on August 15, before the second Test begins at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo on August 23.

With valuable World Test Championship points at stake, team management faces the difficult task of balancing immediate results with the long-term fitness of key players.

For now, all indications suggest that the BCCI is unwilling to rush Bumrah back into action, preferring a complete recovery over risking another lengthy spell on the sidelines.