MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 29: Jasprit Bumrah of India bowls during day four of the Second Test match between Australia and India at Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 29, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
India's T20 World Cup chances have been dealt a major blow with fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the tournament with a back injury.
Prior to India's T20I opener against South Africa, Bumrah was rushed to the BCCI for a medical assessment after complaining of a back ache. Following consultation and a detailed assessment, the Board has confirmed that the star will not play in the World Cup.
Bumrah had previously missed fixtures in August and September with a stress-related back injury on his left side, however, the recent injury is reported to be on his right lower back.
The 28-year-old suffered a similar injury back in 2019, suggesting his pain is a long-term issue.
India has both Mohammad Shami and Deepak Chahar in their fast-bowling reserves, with swing bowler Mohammed Siraj also a contender after replacing Bumrah in the South Africa T20 series.
Missing their third-highest T20 wicket-taker in Bumrah, India will be hoping to improve on last year's T20 World Cup campaign that ended in the group stage.
In late October, India will begin their T20 World Cup against rivals Pakistan, before playing South Africa, Bangladesh and two group winners in the Super 12.