Sunil Gavaskar backs Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming T20I assignments
The Indian team is set to play a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan starting September 13. Given Team India's recent performances, everyone is eagerly awaiting this series. However, one specific aspect has captured the fans' attention: Jasprit Bumrah's selection in the squad.
Jasprit Bumrah has been sidelined since injuring his left knee while fielding during the second ODI against England in Cardiff on July 17, 2026. Due to swelling in his knee, he missed the third ODI as well and has been undergoing rehabilitation ever since. Later this month, Team India will tour Japan for the 2026 Asian Games; whether Bumrah travels with the team for this crucial event will depend on receiving fitness clearance from the medical team. It remains to be seen whether Bumrah gets the opportunity to play against Afghanistan.
Former captain Sunil Gavaskar has shared his views on Bumrah's potential participation in the Afghanistan series and the 2026 Asian Games. Gavaskar outlined his reasoning for supporting the inclusion of the fast bowler in the Asian Games squad.
"There is a significant gap between the Asian Games and the New Zealand series, so Bumrah playing in the Asian Games is actually a good idea because he needs some bowling under his belt. In Sri Lanka, we heard that Mohammed Siraj wasn't in rhythm because he hadn't played enough competitive matches. Bowlers need to bowl overs, and it is crucial for Bumrah to get that match practice," Gavaskar said, as quoted by the Times of India.
Gavaskar emphasized that bowlers require regular match exposure to maintain their sharpness and effectiveness. The gap between the Asian Games and the New Zealand series offers Bumrah an ideal window to regain match fitness and build confidence ahead of the tour.
Jasprit Bumrah is part of India's squad for the three-match T20 series against Afghanistan, subject to fitness clearance from the medical team. Whether he plays or not will depend on his fitness test. Reports indicate that his fitness test is scheduled for September 9, after which it will be confirmed whether he will participate against Afghanistan and in the Asian Games.
His recovery is crucial for the Indian team, as India has several major assignments lined up in the coming weeks. Following the Asian Games, which begin in Japan later this month, Team India is set for a challenging tour of New Zealand. Subsequently, India is scheduled to play a home ODI series against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka—fixtures that are vital for preparations ahead of next year's ODI World Cup. Early next year, the Australian team will tour India for a five-match Test series. Furthermore, the schedule includes the IPL, the Asian Games, India's tour of South Africa, and the marquee event—the ODI World Cup. Given this packed schedule, Bumrah remaining fit will be essential.
Shreyas Iyer will captain Team India in the series against Afghanistan and at the Asian Games. Gavaskar expressed confidence in the young captain's ability to handle the responsibility. Iyer has previously led the Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title and has guided both Delhi and Punjab to the finals. Acknowledging the competitive nature of the tournament, Gavaskar noted that several teams would pose significant challenges to India's bid to defend its gold medal. The former Indian captain stated that the Asian Games provide a great platform for cricketers to interact with athletes from other sports, which will foster the development of all disciplines. It could also prove to be highly inspiring for players like 15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Iyer is a highly experienced captain, having led Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings; I do not think he should face any pressure at the Asian Games.
