Bumrah all set for comeback

There was an unmistakable buzz in the Mumbai Indians camp during Sunday's training session at the Wankhede Stadium.

- Sanjeev K Samyal

Their talisman and ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah had joined the group for the first time this IPL after being sidelined due to a back issue during the final Test against Australia at Sydney.

Going into their home game against RCB on Monday, it is just the boost the five-time champions need after suffering three defeats from four outings so far.

In a gesture that sums up what he means to the franchise, the towering Kieron Pollard, former MI teammate who is the batting coach, joyously lifted Bumrah on his shoulders in the team huddle, saying "Welcome Mufasa" (the 2024 animation film about a lion cub chasing his destiny).

Starting with an elaborate warm-up drill, Bumrah began the net session bowling left-arm spin imitating teammate Mitchell Santner's action before going full throttle for over 25 minutes.

Returning after a long injury lay-off—his last competitive game was Day 2 of the Sydney Test on January 4—his match fitness will be tested on Monday at the Wankhede Stadium. In the nets, there were deliveries in which he looked sharp. Rohit Sharma was troubled by the sharp, incoming deliveries and by some deliveries that pitched at perfect length outside off-stump.