India’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have been dealt a major blow, with Jasprit Bumrah reportedly set to miss the tournament opener against the USA due to a viral fever.
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According to The Indian Express, the star pacer attended India’s training session at the Wankhede Stadium on Friday but did not take part in any on-field drills, suggesting he is still in recovery. His likely absence has raised concerns within the Indian camp as the defending champions gear up to begin their title defence.
Bumrah’s situation further strains India’s resources, with the squad currently having only 13 fully fit players ahead of their first match.
Adding to the fitness worries, Washington Sundar is yet to join the team as he continues his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he awaits final medical clearance.
India’s injury list grew earlier this week after the BCCI confirmed that young pacer Harshit Rana has been ruled out of the tournament following a knee injury sustained during the warm-up match against South Africa. In an official statement, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said Rana picked up the injury in Navi Mumbai and was declared unfit after scans and consultations with specialists. The board wished the youngster a speedy recovery.
Rana’s discomfort was evident during the warm-up clash at the DY Patil Stadium, where he managed just one over, conceding 16 runs before walking off the field while clutching his knee. The selectors subsequently named Mohammed Siraj as his replacement in the squad.
With Bumrah unlikely to feature in the opening game, Siraj is expected to shoulder a key role in India’s pace attack against the USA.
Despite the early setbacks, India remains among the strongest contenders for the title and is chasing history as it looks to become the first team to win three T20 World Cups. However, managing player fitness will be crucial as the campaign unfolds, with the team management now under pressure to navigate these challenges and ensure a strong start to the tournament.
