The Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2025 campaign has been hit with a massive setback as star pacer Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to feature in the first few weeks of the tournament. After missing the Champions Trophy 2025 due to injury, fresh reports indicate that Bumrah is still not fully fit and may be unavailable for the initial 3-4 matches of IPL 2025.
This news has disrupted Mumbai Indians’ team plans, as Bumrah remains their key weapon in the bowling attack. The franchise will now have to rethink its strategies for the crucial opening matches.
Bumrah’s Fitness Report: What We Know So Far
According to BCCI sources, Jasprit Bumrah’s medical reports are positive, and he has started bowling practice at the National Cricket Academy’s Center of Excellence. However, his bowling intensity is still not at full strength, which means he will require more recovery time before making a competitive return.
A BCCI official confirmed:
“Jasprit Bumrah’s recovery is progressing well, but he is unlikely to play in the early matches of IPL 2025. His workload will be gradually increased, and he is expected to rejoin the Mumbai Indians training camp in April.”
With IPL 2025 scheduled to begin on March 22, Bumrah’s return is expected around the first week of April, ruling him out of at least 3-4 matches for Mumbai Indians.
Why Mumbai Indians Will Miss Bumrah in IPL 2025
Jasprit Bumrah is not just Mumbai Indians’ spearhead, but also one of the most feared pacers in the IPL. His absence will significantly impact MI’s bowling attack, especially in the powerplay and death overs.
Here’s why Mumbai Indians will feel his absence:
✅ Unmatched Death-Bowling Skills – Bumrah’s ability to bowl pinpoint yorkers is irreplaceable.
✅ Powerplay Wickets – His presence in the first six overs often provides early breakthroughs.
✅ Leadership in Bowling Attack – MI’s young bowlers rely on Bumrah’s experience and mentorship.
✅ Impact on Team Balance – Mumbai Indians may need to alter their squad combination to compensate for his absence.
With MI playing key opening matches in the tournament, they will have to rely on other pacers to fill the void left by Bumrah.
Other Injury Concerns in IPL 2025
Bumrah is not the only star bowler struggling with fitness ahead of IPL 2025.
🔹 Lucknow Super Giants’ pacer Mayank Yadav is also recovering from an injury and is likely to miss the early matches. Like Bumrah, he is expected to join LSG’s training camp in April.
These injuries are already causing headaches for franchises, as teams look to finalize their playing XIs ahead of the season opener.
How Did Jasprit Bumrah Get Injured?
Jasprit Bumrah first experienced back problems during the Test series against Australia earlier this year. He did not bowl in the second innings of the Sydney Test, which raised concerns about his fitness levels.
Despite intensive rehabilitation under the medical team’s supervision, Bumrah failed to recover in time for the Champions Trophy 2025, forcing him to miss the tournament. Now, his IPL comeback has also been delayed due to workload management concerns.
What’s Next for Mumbai Indians?
With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the first few matches, Mumbai Indians’ management will have to make tactical adjustments to their bowling attack. Here are some possible options:
🔹 Replacing Bumrah with another Indian pacer – MI could turn to Akash Madhwal or Arjun Tendulkar to step up.
🔹 Relying on Jofra Archer – If fit, Archer will have to take the lead as MI’s pace spearhead.
🔹 Possible Overseas Replacement – MI might consider bringing in a replacement pacer if Bumrah’s return is further delayed.
Mumbai Indians’ campaign in IPL 2025 will depend on how well they manage Bumrah’s absence and whether he returns fully fit in April.
Will Bumrah Be Fully Fit for the Rest of IPL 2025?
While reports indicate that Bumrah’s recovery is progressing well, the key concern remains whether he will be able to bowl at full intensity once he returns.
🏏 Best-Case Scenario: Bumrah returns by April’s first week, regains match fitness, and dominates the latter half of IPL 2025.
🏏 Worst-Case Scenario: His injury lingers, delaying his comeback further, which could be a huge blow to MI’s title hopes.
For now, Mumbai Indians and their fans will be hoping for a speedy recovery, as Bumrah’s presence is crucial for their success in IPL 2025.
Will Mumbai Indians manage without their star bowler? Or will Bumrah make a grand comeback and turn MI’s season around? The wait for answers continues!
