ND vs USA T20 World Cup 2026 match at Wankhede today threw up a big surprise even before the first ball. India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah was nowhere in the playing XI. The defending champions started their title defence without their most feared bowler.
What Happened to Bumrah?
Late Friday night, people started talking when Bumrah skipped the team’s last practice session. At the toss on Saturday, captain Suryakumar Yadav cleared the air. He said Bumrah was “unwell” and ruled out of the opener.
The BCCI quickly posted an update:
“Jasprit Bumrah was unavailable for selection for India’s opening T20 World Cup fixture against the USA due to illness. The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his condition.”
It’s a viral fever – nothing serious long-term, but enough to keep him out today.
Smart Call by Team Management
No one likes seeing Bumrah miss a World Cup game, especially after he was Player of the Tournament in 2024. But the team chose caution. Mumbai’s humid weather + a fever could make things worse if he played through it.
With tough games coming up – like Pakistan on February 15 – India wants their No.1 bowler 100% fit for the big ones. USA is seen as a softer opponent, so this felt like the right moment to rest him and let him recover fully.
Also Read: IND vs USA Live Score – T20 World Cup 2026: India in Big Trouble Early On
Siraj Gets the Chance
Bumrah’s spot went to Mohammed Siraj. He only joined the squad Friday night as a replacement for Harshit Rana (out with a knee injury). Siraj hadn’t played T20I since July 2024, but now he’s leading the pace attack with Arshdeep Singh.
Other changes: Ishan Kishan kept his place over Sanju Samson and opened with Abhishek Sharma. Washington Sundar also sat out while recovering at the NCA.
India still has firepower, but everyone’s watching the medical updates. Bumrah back soon could make them unstoppable.
How do you think India will do without him today? Can Siraj step up big? Share your thoughts below – let’s talk IND vs USA T20 World Cup 2026!
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