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New Delhi: Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Mahela Jayawardene admitted that it will be a big challenge for the five-time champions to start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign without their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
Bumrah is recovering from a back injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between India and Australia. His absence will be a major setback for MI as they prepare to face arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their season opener on Sunday, March 23.
Injury Update: When Will Bumrah Return?
Injury: Stress-related lower back injury (suffered in the 5th Test in Sydney).
Recovery Timeline: Advised five weeks of rest by BCCI medical staff.
Missed Tournaments: Was ruled out of the Champions Trophy 2025, replaced by Varun Chakaravarthy.
IPL 2025 Impact: Will miss the first few matches for Mumbai Indians.
Providing an update, Jayawardene said that Bumrah has started his recovery process, but a return to match fitness will take time.
Jayawardene on Bumrah’s Injury:
“Bumrah has just started his progress. We have to wait and see what the BCCI medical team says about him. Everything is going well, but it’s a day-to-day process. Not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and a fantastic professional for us.”
Who Will Replace Bumrah in MI’s Bowling Attack?
With Bumrah sidelined, Mumbai Indians will rely on:
Trent Boult – Experienced Kiwi pacer
Deepak Chahar – Indian swing specialist
Reece Topley (England) – Possible replacement option
Jayawardene believes this is an opportunity for other bowlers to step up in Bumrah’s absence.
Jayawardene on Finding a Replacement:
“We’ll have to wait or find an opportunity for someone else to step up. The early part of the season allows us to try a few things and see how they work.”
Bumrah: MI’s Most Valuable Player
IPL 2025 Mega Auction Retention: ₹18 crore (MI’s top retention)
One of the most prolific wicket-takers in IPL history
Key match-winner for MI, delivering clutch performances year after year
Despite his injury setback, Bumrah remains MI’s most prized asset, and his return will be crucial to their playoff and title ambitions in IPL 2025.
For now, Mumbai Indians will have to manage without their spearhead, hoping their bowling attack can hold firm until he returns.
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