'Doing it Blindfolded: India's Bowling Attack Faces Huge Challenge Without Jasprit Bumrah'

New Delhi, Dec 9 - The Indian cricket team is reeling from the withdrawal of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah due to a back injury, leaving their bowling attack looking vulnerable ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. With his replacement Harshit Rana stepping into the breach, Coach Ravi Shastri and captain Rohit Sharma are set to do some last-minute scouting to find the right combination.

Bumrah's absence has raised serious concerns over India's ability to cope without their premier bowler and has sparked debate about Arshdeep Singh's readiness to lead the team's ODI attack. Former England cricketer and commentator David Lloyd expressed concern over Bumrah's withdrawal, saying, "You are going to miss him (Bumrah). You can't get away from the fact that the best bowler in the world isn't playing, then you've got a problem."

Lloyd also doubted Arshdeep Singh's readiness for the longer format of the game, stating, "If you are the opposition, test him out, really get into him. This is not T20, this is not a little party. You've got to come back and come back again, and that is something he won't be used to."

Despite his inexperience, Arshdeep impressed in the recent ODI against England in Ahmedabad, picking up 2/33 in five overs. However, with team India gearing up for their opening Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai, their bowling depth remains a major concern.

Injury worries continue to plague Indian bowlers as Mohammed Shami is still regaining full match fitness after an injury scare. With Harsh Rana stepping into the fray, hopes are being pinned on the young pacer to deliver under pressure. However, doubts over India's ability to compete without Bumrah cast a shadow of uncertainty over their Champions Trophy aspirations.

The series against Bangladesh will serve as a crucial test for Team India to assess their bowling depth and find solutions to address the issue that's worrying Indian cricket fans. Only time will tell if they can navigate this challenge blindfolded, given the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.