New Delhi [India], February 14: Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh weighed in on the absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming Champions Trophy and identified the key moments when India would miss his on-field presence the most.
Despite Bumrah’s absence, India showcased their strength by completing a 3-0 ODI series whitewash against England, proving their ability to compete with top sides. However, with just a week left for the Champions Trophy, the BCCI confirmed that Bumrah would miss the marquee event due to his ongoing lower back injury.
Harbhajan, while analyzing India’s bowling depth without Bumrah, expressed confidence in India’s chances. He acknowledged Bumrah’s importance but noted the experience within the squad. “I still believe India is the favourite in the Champions Trophy. Bumrah is a big force, who can win matches. Even without Bumrah, there are a lot of experienced players like Arshdeep, Shami, Kuldeep, and Jadeja,” he said on his YouTube channel.
With Bumrah sidelined, India’s pace attack will rely on Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana to deliver crucial breakthroughs. However, Harbhajan noted that India’s strong batting lineup could offer them much-needed support. The return to form of key players such as Rohit Sharma, who scored a blistering century in the second ODI against England, and Virat Kohli, who found his rhythm with a well-paced fifty in the final ODI, has been a boost. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have also been in excellent form, ensuring India’s batting unit remains formidable.
Harbhajan stressed that although India is still a favorite, the team will need to adapt to playing without Bumrah, especially during the critical final overs. “I think Bumrah’s absence will be felt in the last couple of overs when the opposition will need a few runs with just two or three wickets in hand. But I think if you want to win the tournament, you should learn to play without Bumrah,” he added.
India will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai.