Jasprit Bumrah is an important asset for India, his injury will create problems: Sourav Ganguly

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly believes that Jasprit Bumrah's injury lay-off will create problems for team India as the pacer remains an important asset across formats. Bumrah has been on the sidelines since September 2022. His last ODI appearance came in July 2022 and that can prove a big issue for the Indian team with the 2023 One-Day World Cup coming.

Bumrah was surprisingly added to India's squad for the ongoing ODI series against Sri Lanka, but he was ruled out as the management decided not to rush him into comeback. Bumrah missed the 2022 Asia Cup and then the T20 World Cup, with India missing their premier bowler in both important tournaments. Ganguly admitted that being a fast bowler is not easy as they injury prone. He urged the management to wait for Bumrah's recovery.

"Bumrah is such an important asset of the India team. There will be problems obviously. Fast bowlers will get injured often. You have to wait for him to recover. Fast bowling is not easy," Ganguly told reporters in Kolkata.

Indian bowlers, especially pacers Mohammed Siraj and Umran Malik, started well while defending 373 runs in the first ODI against Sri Lanka. But failed to take all ten wickets as Sri Lanka managed to cross 300 thanks to a remarkable century from captain Dasun Shanaka. Indian bowlers have fared well in the absence of Bumrah but the team would definitely want the experienced pacer as they aim to win the World Cup at home.

Eden Gardens to have new structures and stands before the World Cup: Sourav Ganguly

After gaining a crucial 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, both teams travel to Kolkata for the second match scheduled at Eden Gardens on January 12. The iconic venue is expected to host the World Cup games and Ganguly revealed that the fans will witness new structures and stands at Eden Garden before the World Cup.

"Eden Garden is a nice ground. Before the World Cup, new structures and stands will be built," Ganguly added.

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