The absence of Jasprit Bumrah from India's playing XI in the 3rd T20I against South Africa in Dharamshala on Sunday, December 14, 2025, has raised concerns among fans and cricket enthusiasts. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has addressed these concerns, confirming that Bumrah has returned home due to personal reasons.
In an official statement released shortly after the toss, the BCCI stated, "Jasprit Bumrah has gone back home for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the game. An update on him joining the squad for the remaining matches will be provided in due course". The nature of the personal reasons has not been disclosed.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav also confirmed the news at the toss, stating that Bumrah's absence was one of two forced changes to the team. Along with Bumrah, Axar Patel was also unavailable for selection due to illness. Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav were brought into the playing XI to replace Bumrah and Patel respectively.
Bumrah's absence is a significant blow to the Indian team. He is a key player in the T20I team, known for his ability to pick up wickets. In the first T20I of the series, Bumrah took two wickets. However, he wasn't at his best in the second T20I, going wicketless and conceding 45 runs.
The timing of Bumrah's departure is also critical, with the five-match series currently level at 1-1. With the series at a crucial juncture, both India and South Africa recognize the importance of the 3rd T20I in seizing momentum.
While the BCCI has not provided a specific timeline for Bumrah's return, they have assured that an update will be provided regarding his availability for the remaining matches in Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Until more information is available, it remains uncertain whether Bumrah will rejoin the squad for the remainder of the series.
This is not the first time in 2025 that Bumrah's availability has been a concern. In February, he was ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy due to a lower back injury. There were also concerns about his fitness ahead of the IPL 2025.
The Indian team will hope for a quick resolution to Bumrah's personal situation and his swift return to the squad. In his absence, the team will need to rely on other bowlers to step up and fill the void.
