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Jasprit Bumrah is currently grappling with significant fitness issues that are casting a shadow over India's preparations for the 2025 Champions Trophy. His recent back spasms, which occurred during the Sydney Test against Australia, have resulted in swelling and necessitated rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. This uncertainty surrounding his fitness has delayed the announcement of India's squad for the tournament.

Despite these challenges, the Indian selectors have decided to include Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad, alongside Kuldeep Yadav, who is also recovering from a groin injury after undergoing surgery in Germany. Kuldeep is currently at the NCA with hopes of returning to full fitness by the end of January.

Bumrah's performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy was remarkable, where he claimed 32 wickets at an impressive average of 13.06. However, his inability to bowl on the final day of the fifth Test due to his back injury has raised concerns about his long-term fitness and potential as a Test captain. Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir emphasized that without Bumrah, India's bowling attack would be significantly weakened.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is still awaiting official confirmation regarding the fitness status of both Bumrah and Kuldeep, which has further delayed the preliminary squad announcement for the Champions Trophy. Other teams, including Bangladesh, New Zealand, England, Afghanistan, and Australia, have already finalized their squads, while the ICC has allowed teams to make changes to their provisional squads until February 13.

Given Bumrah's history of injuries, particularly to his lower back, there are growing doubts about his suitability as a long-term Test captain. At 27 years old and with 45 Tests under his belt, his frequent injuries raise questions about his ability to handle the demands of Test cricket and major ICC events. Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal are being considered as potential vice-captains, with Pant emerging as a strong candidate for future captaincy.

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