Bumrah likely to miss Champion's Trophy due to injury

India's top paceman, Jasprit Bumrah, is facing a potentially prolonged absence from international cricket following his injury during the 5th Test against Australia in Sydney. Initially diagnosed as a mere 'back spasm' when he left the field on Day 2 of the match, it now appears that the injury could be more serious, with reports indicating that Bumrah will miss the upcoming white-ball series against England. This series includes five T20Is and three ODIs, and his participation in the 2023 ICC Champions Trophy is also in question.

Having already missed significant tournaments due to previous injury setbacks, the Indian selectors are determined not to take any risks with the senior pacer. Bumrah’s injury situation has made it clear that he will not be included in the England series, but there are still hopes that he could feature in the Champions Trophy, albeit under certain conditions. Bumrah will need clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) medical team before being allowed to play in the prestigious tournament.

Bumrah himself admitted his frustration with the injury. “A little frustrating (on injury) but sometimes you have to respect your body, and you can't fight your body,” he said after the Sydney Test. "Would have loved to bowl on the spiciest wicket of the series. Just had a little discomfort after the first innings."

In addition to Bumrah's injury, other players such as Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav are also being monitored as they recover from their respective injuries. 

India's batting lineup is also undergoing adjustments, with Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to make his debut in the ODI side against England, although he will be included as a backup opener. Rohit Sharma will lead the team and open with Shubman Gill. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer are set to bat at No. 3 and No. 4 respectively.

There is still uncertainty over the wicket-keeper's spot, with KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant vying for the position, while Sanju Samson is unlikely to feature. The spin department will likely include Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav, with Washington Sundar also expected to be part of the squad. 

Hardik Pandya is expected to be added to the squad, but the inclusion of Nitish Kumar Reddy remains uncertain. Varun Chakravarthy is also on the selectors' radar, though his compatibility with the 50-over format is still under review.

Mohammed Siraj is expected to be rested for the T20I series but will likely feature in the ODI squad against England. He is also anticipated to be part of India's Champions Trophy lineup, along with Arshdeep Singh.