Xtra Time Web Desk: Mohammed Shami is the front runner to replace injured Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Shami is already in the stand-by and has recovered after testing Covid-19 positive. Deepak Chahar, who is also in the stand by can be drafted in the main squad too. Umesh Yadav is likely to be added as a stand by. The fast bowler from Vidarbha was recently added to India’s T20I squad as a replacement for Shami for the series against Australia.
Bumrah complained of back pain during practice and was immediately withdrawn from all training routines before 1st T20 between India vs South Africa. But the damage was already done. He is set to miss 4-6 months with the back injury even if he doesn’t require surgery.
Bumrah missed the tour to West Indies and Asia Cup earlier due to the same back injury. However, he was selected for the recently concluded three match T20I series against Australia and South Africa. Before missing the opening match against South Africa on Wednesday, September 28 due to a back ailment, he played the second and third T20Is against Australia on September 23 and 25. He registered figures of 1/23 and 0/50 respectively in both those matches.
Shami, who is out of the ongoing T20I series against South Africa has just recovered from COVID-19. He will need to undergo the BCCI’s mandatory cardio vascular tests before he can be eligible for selection again.