Bumrah Set to Return Against Namibia as India Monitor Abhishek, Washington Fitness

India are set to receive a major boost ahead of their second match of the 2026 T20 World Cup, with Jasprit Bumrah in line to return against Namibia on Thursday after recovering from illness.

Bumrah missed India’s opening fixture against the USA but trained at full intensity in Delhi on Tuesday, bowling at full pace and showing no visible signs of discomfort. The fast bowler had been sidelined for around 10 days but appears ready to resume competitive action.

While Bumrah’s return is all but confirmed, India remain cautious over the availability of opener Abhishek Sharma and allrounder Washington Sundar. Abhishek was dismissed for a first-ball duck in the opener and did not take the field thereafter. According to assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, the left-hander is still recovering from a stomach bug.

Washington, meanwhile, is returning from a side tear sustained during India’s home white-ball series against New Zealand in January. He linked up with the squad on Monday and also bowled during the net session, though the team management is yet to make a final call on his readiness.

“Washington joined the team yesterday. He’ll train today,” ten Doeschate said. “Abhi still has a few issues with his tummy. We are hopeful he’ll be available for the game in two days’ time. Booms will bowl today as well. He’s been about ten days without bowling, but he’s feeling a lot better and moving a lot better. We’ll see how training goes today and tomorrow and then put the team together on Friday.”

India face Namibia in their second group match as they look to build momentum early in the tournament, with selection decisions hinging on the fitness of their returning players.