Reports: Jasprit Bumrah's race against time for ODI World Cup kicks off at NCA; likely to play practice matches in July

The Indian fans missed Jasprit Bumrah's services in the World Test Championship (WTC) final as India lost to Australia by 209 runs. The speedster played his last match for India in September 2022 and underwent back surgery in March. 

After a successful surgery, Bumrah is on the road to recovery as he is sweating it out at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. With 100 days left for the ODI World Cup that is set to be held exclusively in India for the first time, Indian fans will be relieved to know that the fast bowler has started bowling in the nets and is likely to play practice matches at the NCA next month, as per reports.

Several other reports that have emerged suggest that the experienced seamer is bowling seven overs in the nets and recuperating nicely. His fitness will be assessed after he plays a few practice games at the NCA next month.

He should not be hurried: Ramji Srinivasan

Former strength and conditioning coach of team India, Ramji Srinivasan, suggested that Jasprit Bumrah should not be rushed back into the Indian side. Bumrah attempted to make a comeback in the ODI series against Sri Lanka in January. However, the Gujarat pacer complained of back pain after reportedly bowling just three overs in the nets and was subsequently released from the squad.

“He should not be hurried. Playing practice matches at the NCA is a good step as it will help tune his body to the demands of a match. But he should be made to play in some actual (domestic) matches before bringing him to top-level cricket," Srinivasan was quoted as saying by Cricketnext.

“The demands of international cricket are different, and the body should be absolutely ready to take that amount of workload. Recovering from a stress fracture is a delicate exercise, and Bumrah should be allowed maximum recovery time," he added.

Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul are also at the NCA, recovering from their respective injuries. As per reports, both players are on the right track, but their long-awaited return can't be predicted at the moment.