Mumbai, April 6, 2025 – In a major boost to the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) IPL 2025 campaign, premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has rejoined the squad after a lengthy injury layoff. However, despite his return, the 31-year-old is unlikely to feature in MI’s high-voltage clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Wankhede Stadium on Monday (April 7).
Bumrah had been sidelined since suffering a back injury during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia earlier this year in Sydney. The injury forced him to miss the Champions Trophy and the initial phase of the Indian Premier League due to an extensive rehabilitation program.
Rehab at NCA and Silent Comeback
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— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) April 6, 2025
Bumrah underwent rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (formerly NCA) in Bengaluru, focusing on back strengthening and bowling workload management. Initially, reports hinted at a prolonged absence, possibly extending well into the second half of the season.
However, on Sunday (April 6), Mumbai Indians shared a hype video on social media titled “Ready to Roar,” confirming Bumrah’s return to the squad. The clip showed the speedster back in MI colours, sending fans into a frenzy and offering a ray of hope for the five-time champions.
Practice Game Participation and Monitoring
According to Sports Today, Bumrah already featured in a closed-door practice match on Saturday (April 5) and is undergoing further assessment in a simulation game on Sunday. MI’s medical team, known for its cautious approach, is monitoring his progress closely.
Sources suggest that while there’s a slim chance of Bumrah being cleared for the RCB game, the franchise is more likely to aim for his return in MI’s upcoming clash against Delhi Capitals on April 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Bumrah’s Absence Felt by MI
Mumbai Indians have had a rocky start to their IPL 2025 campaign, registering just one win in four matches – a solitary home victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. The Hardik Pandya-led side has faced defeats against Chennai Super Kings, Gujarat Titans, and Lucknow Super Giants, with bowling being a key area of concern.
In Bumrah’s absence, the team has relied on uncapped Indian pacers Ashwani Kumar and Satyanarayan Raju, who were paired with veterans Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar. While the young duo has shown promise, the lack of experience has been evident, especially in death-over situations.
Bumrah’s Return Could Be a Game-Changer
MI’s bowling line-up, although balanced on paper, has struggled to execute plans without their pace spearhead. Bumrah’s presence will not only bring tactical depth but also inject much-needed confidence into the side. Known for his pinpoint yorkers and calm under pressure, Bumrah remains one of the most lethal pacers in T20 cricket.
Before the last IPL mega auction, Mumbai Indians retained Bumrah for ₹18 crore, the highest among their picks, reaffirming his value to the franchise. It was MI that first offered him a platform in 2013, and since then, he’s evolved into India’s go-to fast bowler across formats.
