Bumrah is not our sole focus, says Aaqib Javed on India-Pakistan clash

Pakistan’s interim head coach Aaqib Javed has dismissed concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s potential impact in the highly anticipated Champions Trophy clash between Pakistan and India. While the Indian pacer has been a key force in international cricket, Aaqib emphasized that Pakistan will not shape its entire strategy around one bowler.

Bumrah, who has been India’s pace spearhead, endured a grueling 2024, bowling 386.4 overs across formats. The toll on his body became evident during the final Test against Australia in Sydney, where he missed the second innings due to back spasms. His absence left India’s bowling attack exposed, contributing to their 3-1 series defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Despite ongoing fitness concerns, Bumrah was included in India’s 15-player squad for the Champions Trophy. However, questions remain over his availability for the marquee event. Aaqib, while acknowledging Bumrah’s skill, suggested that India’s primary concern should be his fitness rather than the impact he might have on Pakistan’s batting lineup. He pointed out that every team in the tournament possesses high-quality players, making the competition highly competitive.

“They should be worried about Bumrah’s fitness. When you play the Champions Trophy, you can’t take any team lightly because the top eight teams are participating. If a team has a bowler like Bumrah, it’s a plus point, but that doesn’t mean we will plan everything around him,” Aaqib told reporters.

India’s captain Rohit Sharma provided an update on Bumrah’s condition, stating that the team is waiting for scan results that will provide more clarity on his fitness. The Indian team management will determine his availability for the final ODI against England based on the medical report.

“Jasprit, obviously, we’re waiting on some update about his scan, which is due to happen in the next few days,” Rohit said ahead of the first ODI against England. He further mentioned that once the results are out, the team will have a clearer picture regarding his participation in the Champions Trophy.

Bumrah’s presence in the tournament could be significant given his exceptional performances in 2024. The right-arm pacer finished the year as the highest wicket-taker in international cricket, claiming 86 wickets in 21 matches at an impressive average of 13.76.

His standout performances included four four-wicket hauls and five five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 6/45. His Test numbers were equally remarkable, with 71 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 14.92, demonstrating his effectiveness both at home and overseas.