Bumrah Out of Ind vs NZ 3rd Test Due to Viral Illness

India’s vice-captain and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the third and final Test against New Zealand in Mumbai due to an unresolved viral illness, as confirmed by the BCCI. This announcement follows initial reassurances from head coach Gautam Gambhir, who indicated Bumrah was managing light fitness exercises in Mumbai’s intense weather, but the pacer ultimately did not recover in time.

Bumrah’s absence is a blow for India, especially given his recent form. In the series so far, he played all four Tests, bowled 90 overs, and claimed 14 wickets—third-highest in both categories for India. Initially, there was speculation he might rest to manage his workload ahead of the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he is expected to play a pivotal role, especially if captain Rohit Sharma misses the opener in Perth.

Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar had previously downplayed concerns about Bumrah’s workload, noting that recent matches had not lasted five full days, thereby limiting his on-field demands. However, the confirmation of his viral infection changed plans, sidelining him from the final match of the series.

New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the toss and chose to bat first in Mumbai’s favourable conditions. The Indian lineup saw no changes except Bumrah’s absence, while New Zealand also faced a setback with Mitchell Santner ruled out due to injury, replaced by Ish Sodhi as the Kiwis aim for a historic clean sweep over India.