India have suffered a major setback ahead of their two match Test series against Sri Lanka, with Jasprit Bumrah unavailable because of a knee problem.
The 32 year old fast bowler picked up the issue while playing in the second One Day International against England last month. Although he was initially named in India’s squad, his participation depended on successfully completing a medical evaluation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Bumrah continued to feel pain during his recovery programme and was unable to prove his readiness for the demands of Test cricket. The Indian selectors have therefore removed him from the touring group.
The pacer had also missed the ODI at Lord’s after suffering an impact related problem while fielding during the previous contest in Cardiff. India had hoped that a period of rehabilitation would allow him to return against Sri Lanka, but the discomfort did not improve sufficiently.
His absence represents a significant concern for an Indian Test team currently going through a period of change. India have been defeated in two series at home during the last two years, while their performances overseas have lacked consistency.
Bumrah remains a hugely influential member of the bowling attack and is presently ranked as the leading Test bowler in the world. His availability has been closely controlled since he sustained a back problem during the 2024 to 2025 Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
India have continued to take a cautious approach with his schedule. During the five Test tour of England last year, Bumrah appeared in only three matches. He was then given a break from the single Test against Afghanistan in June, which followed the conclusion of the 2026 Indian Premier League.
India must now reorganise their pace unit without their most experienced strike bowler as they prepare to face Sri Lanka across two Tests.
