Jasprit Bumrah Likely to Play Against Namibia; Abhishek Sharma Still Unsure

Jasprit Bumrah is expected to play for India against Namibia. He bowled well in practice. Abhishek Sharma still has a stomach issue and might not play. Washington Sundar is training and could be available.
By Newsroom | Cricket, India |

The Indian cricket team faces a crucial match against Namibia, with the availability of key players Jasprit Bumrah and Abhishek Sharma being closely watched. While pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah appears ready to rejoin the squad after a period of absence, opener Abhishek Sharma continues to struggle with a stomach issue, casting doubt on his participation.

The team's next fixture, a T20 World Cup game against Namibia, is set to take place on Thursday. India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has been the primary source of updates regarding player fitness, providing information in press conferences and to the media.

Bumrah set to play against Namibia; India wait on Abhishek and Washington - 1

Player Fitness Updates

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has offered insights into the fitness of several players:

  • Jasprit Bumrah: Bumrah participated in team training in Delhi on Tuesday, bowling at full capacity. He had not bowled for approximately ten days but is reportedly feeling much better and moving freely. His involvement in the upcoming match is considered highly probable.

  • Abhishek Sharma: Sharma is still experiencing stomach issues and has not been on the field since his dismissal for a first-ball duck against the USA. His recovery is being closely monitored, and his availability for the Namibia game remains uncertain.

  • Washington Sundar: All-rounder Washington Sundar is expected to participate in training and is reportedly back in action. His fitness level is being assessed ahead of the Namibia clash.

Context of Player Absences and Returns

  • Jasprit Bumrah's absence: Bumrah missed India's opening T20 World Cup match against the USA. Reports suggest this was due to a high fever. His return is seen as a significant boost to India's bowling attack as they aim to defend their title.

  • Abhishek Sharma's condition: Sharma's stomach problem has kept him sidelined for some time. His inability to take the field after his early dismissal against the USA highlights the persistent nature of his ailment.

  • Washington Sundar's role: Sundar's potential return provides additional all-round options for the Indian team. His inclusion could allow for a more balanced performance.

Training and Availability for Namibia Match

Jasprit Bumrah is expected to play against Namibia. He has been bowling at full intensity during practice sessions. Washington Sundar is also set to train and is likely to be available. The team management is in a "wait-and-watch mode" concerning Abhishek Sharma's fitness. A decision on his participation will likely be made after further assessment of his condition.

Read More: Italy Beats Nepal in T20 World Cup Match

Bumrah set to play against Namibia; India wait on Abhishek and Washington - 2

Broader Tournament Context

India's match against Namibia is their second game in the T20 World Cup. The team secured a hard-fought win against the Netherlands in their opening fixture. Simultaneously, Pakistan is also set to play their second Group A match against the USA. Reports have also emerged regarding Pakistan's prior threat to boycott the tournament due to government orders, a situation that has since been reportedly reversed.

Expert Analysis and Team Strategy

The return of Jasprit Bumrah is anticipated to strengthen India's bowling unit significantly. His ability to perform under pressure is well-documented. However, the ongoing concern over Abhishek Sharma's fitness presents a challenge for the team's batting lineup. The coaching staff, led by Ryan ten Doeschate, is actively managing these situations to ensure the team's best possible preparation for the upcoming fixtures. The team's performance against Namibia will be a key indicator of their preparedness for the tournament's later stages.

Conclusion

The immediate focus for the Indian cricket team is the upcoming T20 World Cup match against Namibia. Jasprit Bumrah's impending return is a positive development, bolstering their pace attack. Washington Sundar's readiness to train further strengthens the team's options. However, the persistent stomach issue affecting Abhishek Sharma remains a significant concern, creating uncertainty about the final team composition. The team management's decisions regarding these players will be critical in shaping India's performance in this crucial group stage encounter.

Sources:

  • ESPN: https://www.espn.in/cricket/story/_/id/47887124/jasprit-bumrah-set-play-namibia-india-wait-abhishek-sharma-washington-sundar-fitness

  • Context: This report provides a direct update on Jasprit Bumrah's fitness and bowling in training, alongside the concerns about Abhishek Sharma and Washington Sundar.

  • Sportskeeda: https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-assistant-coach-provides-crucial-updates-jasprit-bumrah-abhishek-sharma-ahead-ind-vs-pak-t20-world-cup-2026-match

  • Context: This article highlights assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate's comments on Bumrah and Sharma, placing it within the context of the T20 World Cup and mentioning other match-ups.

  • Cricketnmore: https://www.cricketnmore.com/cricket-news/t20-wc-washington-bumrah-to-train-abhishek-still-down-with-stomach-issue-says-ten-doeschate-188039

  • Context: This source focuses on the training status of Washington and Bumrah, and Abhishek's continued absence due to a stomach issue, directly quoting the assistant coach.

  • Newkerala: https://www.newkerala.com/news/a/t20-wc-washington-bumrah-train-abhishek-still-down-738.htm

  • Context: This report details the training plans for Washington and Bumrah, and Abhishek's ongoing stomach problem, attributed to Ryan ten Doeschate. It also includes praise for another player, Siraj, and his potential replacement by Bumrah.

  • Udaipurtimes: https://udaipurtimes.com/sports/team-india-bumrah-abhishek-sharma-fitness-update-ind-vs-pak/cid18228415.htm

  • Context: This article confirms Washington Sundar's return and bowling status, and also mentions Ryan ten Doeschate's comments on Pakistan's boycott reversal.

  • Cricket News: https://www.cricketnews.com/en/cricket/news/jasprit-bumrah-available-india-t20-world-cup-namibia-pakistan/f4bb3cb67756be3b00ecadb0

  • Context: This source discusses Bumrah's potential availability for upcoming fixtures, noting his absence from the USA game and referencing captain Suryakumar Yadav's earlier updates.

  • Crictips: https://crictips.com/news/bumrah-boost-for-india-star-pacer-set-to-return-against-namibia-203467/

  • Context: This report emphasizes Bumrah's likely return against Namibia, citing captain Suryakumar Yadav, and also highlights the continued monitoring of Abhishek Sharma's condition. It frames Bumrah's return as a significant boost for India.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will Jasprit Bumrah play against Namibia?
Yes, Jasprit Bumrah bowled well in practice and is expected to play.
Q: Is Abhishek Sharma playing?
Abhishek Sharma still has a stomach problem, so it is not sure if he will play.
Q: What about Washington Sundar?
Washington Sundar is training and is likely to be available for the match.