Jasprit Bumrah Faces Knee Injury Setback in England Test

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India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, was officially released from the national squad during the fifth Test against England, not due to workload management, as initially believed, but because of a developing knee injury, according to a report by The Times of India.

Before the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, it had been confirmed by head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Shubman Gill, and Bumrah himself that the 31-year-old pacer would be rested for part of the five-match series. The decision was intended to protect him from further injury following a significant layoff during the Australia tour. His absence from the starting eleven at The Oval for the final Test was, at the time, expected.

However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued a brief on 31 July announcing that Bumrah had been formally released from the squad mid-match. The unexpected timing of the decision prompted scrutiny, especially given his potential role off the pitch in supporting younger bowlers.

The Times of India report cited an unnamed BCCI official who confirmed: “Unfortunately, Bumrah is suffering from a knee injury. The good thing is that it’s not a major one and won’t require surgery. The BCCI medical team is currently awaiting his scan reports.”

Bumrah will now undergo rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. While the injury is not considered serious, its timing is significant. India’s Test schedule will pause briefly, but preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup are already underway. With two major white-ball tournaments on the horizon, managing Bumrah’s recovery will be critical to India’s strategic planning.

Despite his absence, India’s bowling unit impressed at The Oval. Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Prasidh Krishna shouldered the responsibility, taking 15 of the 16 wickets across the first four days. Their persistence was vital on Day Four, as England closed on 339 for 6 in pursuit of 374, leaving the contest finely balanced heading into the final day.

Although this latest injury is less serious than Bumrah’s previous setbacks, it has once again raised concerns about the long-term management of India’s leading pace spearhead. Given his central role in all formats, the BCCI will be under pressure to ensure his fitness is preserved for upcoming international campaigns.