Bumrah May Play a First-Class Game Before India’s New Zealand Tests
Selectors want Jasprit Bumrah to prove his left knee can handle a first-class match, possibly in the Ranji Trophy, before Test duty in New Zealand.
By SportCricket Desk · 4 Sep 2026 · 3 min read
India’s selectors are being careful with Jasprit Bumrah. They would like to see him get through a first-class match before he is considered for the Test tour of New Zealand, and a Ranji Trophy game is one option under discussion.
Bumrah, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar and Harshit Rana are taking part in practice matches at the Centre of Excellence from September 4 to 9, as they are assessed after injuries or fitness worries.
Background to the injury
Bumrah hurt his left knee in an impact injury while fielding in the second ODI against England in Cardiff in July 2026. He has not played a red-ball match since the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati in November 2025.
Clearance is not enough
The BCCI medical team has reportedly finished the clinical fitness checks. Even so, selectors want proof that Bumrah can cope with the workload of a first-class fixture before returning to Tests. The practice games are meant to show how the players respond to competitive demands.
All four players are in India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series, subject to medical clearance.
Where he might play
Options include a Ranji Trophy match or an India A fixture. India A games in New Zealand could clash with the ODI series, which makes the Ranji Trophy the more likely route. Bumrah is also expected to be rested for the home T20I series against West Indies in October, giving him more time to prepare for the longer format.
Prince Yadav, recovered from his own fitness issues, is seen as possible cover. For now, the selectors are putting Bumrah’s long-term fitness ahead of any rushed comeback.
