India Coach Urges Fast-Bowling Duo to Step Up in Bumrah’s Absence at Champions Trophy

Following India’s comprehensive 3-0 ODI series victory over England, head coach Gautam Gambhir has urged young pacers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh to seize the opportunity in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Speaking to reporters after India’s dominant series win, Gambhir emphasized the importance of rising to the occasion, particularly with Bumrah sidelined due to a lower back injury. While acknowledging Bumrah’s irreplaceable impact, the coach remained optimistic about India’s bowling depth heading into the marquee tournament.

Harshit Rana & Arshdeep Singh: A Chance to Shine on the Big Stage

With Bumrah ruled out, the onus will be on India’s emerging pacers to deliver under pressure. Harshit Rana, a promising fast bowler, has shown glimpses of raw pace and control, while Arshdeep Singh has already made a mark with his swing bowling and death-over skills.

Gambhir’s Key Takeaways on India’s Fast-Bowling Depth:

Harshit Rana’s encouraging performances The youngster has impressed with pace, aggression, and wicket-taking ability.
Arshdeep Singh’s adaptability His ability to swing the new ball and bowl at the death makes him a valuable asset.
Mohammed Shami’s return strengthens the attack The veteran pacer’s experience and quality add depth to the pace unit.

“Harshit has shown some good signs, and Arsh(deep) was also good today. Obviously, you’ll always miss a bowler like Jasprit Bumrah—his quality is exceptional. But it’s always good to have someone like Mohammed Shami back with his experience,” Gambhir stated.

The Impact of Bumrah’s Absence on India’s Bowling Strategy

Bumrah’s absence is a significant setback for India, given his reputation as a match-winner across all formats. His ability to strike early, control the middle overs, and dominate at the death has been instrumental in India’s success.

However, Gambhir’s focus on a collective effort underscores the team’s adaptability. While Shami is expected to lead the attack, India’s bowling unit will require contributions from multiple pacers to compensate for Bumrah’s absence.

Key Adjustments India Might Make in Bumrah’s Absence:

Rotation Strategy: India may opt for a three-pacer attack, balancing it with all-rounders and spinners.
Role Clarity: Arshdeep could be India’s new-ball specialist, while Harshit may be groomed for middle-overs aggression.
Death Overs Strategy: Shami and Arshdeep will likely share responsibilities in the final overs, a role that Bumrah usually dominates.

India’s bowling depth remains strong, and Gambhir’s confidence in emerging fast bowlers highlights the team’s long-term vision beyond just one marquee player.