Jasprit Bumrah Nearing Return but Set to Miss Mumbai Indians’ Next Two IPL 2025 Matches
Jasprit Bumrah remains unavailable for Mumbai Indians (MI) as he continues rehabilitation following a back injury. The pacer is expected to miss MI’s upcoming IPL 2025 matches against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on April 5 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 7.
However, sources suggest that Bumrah is nearing full fitness. The final stage of his recovery is currently underway at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His return to competitive cricket depends on clearance from the BCCI medical team, after which he can rejoin the Mumbai Indians squad.
Bumrah Prioritizing Full Fitness Before IPL Comeback
The Indian speedster has been managing his recovery carefully, ensuring he returns only when fully fit. With India’s crucial five-match Test series against England scheduled to begin on June 28, the BCCI medical team is monitoring his workload closely.
Bumrah has gradually increased his bowling intensity in recent weeks. While initial expectations suggested he might join MI in early April, his return appears slightly delayed as he focuses on long-term fitness.
Mumbai Indians Struggle Without Their Star Bowler
Without Bumrah, MI’s bowling attack has been relatively inexperienced, featuring debutants like Satyanarayana Raju, Vignesh Puthur, and Ashwani Kumar. Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar have led the pace attack, while Hardik Pandya has contributed as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
After playing three matches this season, MI has won just one, highlighting the impact of Bumrah’s absence. Head coach Mahela Jayawardene had acknowledged this challenge, stating that the team would need to adapt until their lead pacer was available.
Bumrah’s Injury History and Road to Recovery
Bumrah has been plagued by recurring back injuries in recent years. After missing the entire IPL 2023 season due to surgery, he returned to international cricket but suffered another setback during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January 2025.
Initially included in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad, he was later withdrawn after scans in February revealed continued discomfort. The BCCI medical team prescribed a five-week rest period, delaying his comeback.
When Will Bumrah Return to IPL 2025?
The timeline for Bumrah’s IPL return remains uncertain. If he clears the final round of fitness tests soon, he could be available for MI’s later matches. However, with the England Test series on the horizon, the management may take a cautious approach.
For Mumbai Indians, his return could be a game-changer, providing much-needed experience and firepower in their bowling attack. Until then, MI must find ways to compensate for his absence in the crucial upcoming fixtures.
