Mumbai Indians (MI) are breathing a sigh of relief as star pacer Jasprit Bumrah is back at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. After giving a visit to the center more than a week ago, the MI pacer has returned to review his progress for the upcoming 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is set to get a green signal for his participation. However, Bumrah's availability partial or full - will be only ascertained during his visit.
For the unversed, this is the second time Bumrah is vising NCA in a short span, as during his previous visit he was understood to experience some discomfort while bowling. After monitoring him in his action, the NCA recommended specific exercises, and advised him to visit later. In his latest visit though, the 31-year-old is quietly optimistic about his progress.
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If Bumrah feels comfortable while bowling, then he could be cleared to play for MI for the coming season. However, the CricBuzz report claims that the fast bowler could take a week before he regains full fitness.
Mahela Jayawardene confident about Jasprit Bumrah's early return to IPL
MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene is optimistic about Bumrah's progress and is hopeful to have him soon in MI team.
"He just started that progress. We have to wait and see what their feedback is on him. At the moment, everything is going well, but obviously, it is on a day-to-day basis, the progress. He is in good spirits, and hopefully, he can join the team sooner.
"Obviously, not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world, and he has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," the MI head coach said during a media conference.
Bumrah is a vital cog in the MI team, as his four overs are absolute gold dust. The 31-year-old is potent in the power play and equally menacing in the death overs. His economy rate of 7.3 is one of best for pacers in IPL history.
