Bumrah rejoins Mumbai Indians ahead of home clash against RCB

India pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah has rejoined Mumbai Indians ahead of their crucial home fixture against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Monday, 7 April. The news of his return has raised hopes of a recovery from his long-standing back injury, which has kept him sidelined since January.

Bumrah, the 2024 International Cricketer of the Year, was last seen in action during the final day of the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney earlier this year, where he sustained a back injury. Since then, he has been recovering and seeking clearance from the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

Mumbai Indians, who have struggled early in the season with just one win from four matches, announced Bumrah's return with a video on social media titled "Ready to Roar." The 31-year-old pacer will be crucial to Mumbai's hopes of turning their fortunes around after a disappointing start to the season. They currently sit seventh in the points table and will look to bounce back with a victory against the in-form RCB at Wankhede Stadium.

Bumrah's presence is expected to provide a boost to the five-time IPL champions. MI captain Hardik Pandya had recently hinted that Bumrah would be rejoining the squad, stating, "Jasprit should be back soon." Bumrah had undergone several assessments at the BCCI's sports science facility, and after being cleared for participation in the IPL, it is now anticipated that he will take part in Monday's game, though a final decision will be made based on his performance in the nets on Sunday evening.