The uncertainty surrounding Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness for the upcoming Champions Trophy has forced India’s team management to explore alternatives. However, former cricketer Aakash Chopra isn’t sold on Gautam Gambhir’s reported choice for a replacement.
Bumrah’s Fitness Concerns Cast a Shadow
With the Champions Trophy set to begin on February 19, India’s squad selection hinges on the availability of its ace pacer, Jasprit Bumrah. The right-arm quick has reportedly joined the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for rehabilitation, where his fitness is being closely monitored. A final decision on his participation is expected soon, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) must be prepared with a contingency plan.
Gautam Gambhir, a key figure in India’s cricketing think tank, appears to have identified Harshit Rana as the likely replacement. The 22-year-old Delhi pacer, who made his international debut during last year’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was given the nod over Arshdeep Singh in India’s first two ODIs against England. But not everyone agrees with this approach.
Aakash Chopra Questions the Selection
Aakash Chopra, a former India opener turned cricket analyst, has voiced his concerns over Rana’s selection as a backup. He believes the team should reconsider its approach if Bumrah is ultimately ruled out.
“We’re being told that Rana is actually a replacement for Shivam Dube in the T20I series against England,” Chopra remarked, pointing out that Rana’s role had previously been defined differently. This raises a fundamental question—should the selectors look beyond Rana if they need a pace-bowling replacement?
Rana’s Limited Experience at the Highest Level
Despite flashes of promise, Harshit Rana remains relatively untested in high-stakes international cricket.
- He made his debut in the Australia series but has played only a handful of matches since.
- His inclusion in the playing XI over Arshdeep Singh in the England ODIs drew mixed reactions.
- Critics argue that his skillset is still developing, making him a risky pick for a tournament as competitive as the Champions Trophy.
On the other hand, Arshdeep Singh boasts more international exposure and has delivered in pressure situations, particularly in T20 cricket. His left-arm angle could provide variety, something India might miss if Bumrah is unavailable.
Options Beyond Rana
If Gambhir and Rohit Sharma decide to look elsewhere, who could be a better fit?
| Player | Experience | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Arshdeep Singh | 50+ white-ball matches | Left-arm swing, death bowling expertise |
| Mukesh Kumar | Impressive in Tests, ODIs | Seam movement, consistency |
| Avesh Khan | IPL performer, limited ODIs | Raw pace, bounce |
Among these, Arshdeep Singh seems the most logical choice given his ability to swing the ball early and bowl effectively at the death. Mukesh Kumar has shown glimpses of control in the longer format, but whether he can seamlessly transition into high-pressure ODIs remains uncertain. Avesh Khan, though talented, has yet to cement his place at the international level.
Time Running Out for a Decision
With just days left before the Champions Trophy squad is locked in, the BCCI and team management must act fast. If Bumrah regains fitness, this debate will become redundant. But if he doesn’t, choosing the right backup will be crucial to India’s campaign.
For now, Gambhir’s pick has sparked discussion, and Aakash Chopra isn’t alone in his skepticism. Whether the selectors rethink their approach remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—India can’t afford to get this decision wrong.
