I think we need Jasprit Bumrah for World Cup, Rohit Sharma as captain has probably missed him a lot: Mohammad Kaif

Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion for the 2023 ODI World Cup (WC) is still doubtful as he still recovers from a back injury. Former India cricketer, Mohammad Kaif thinks Team India will need the services of Bumrah to win the 2023 World Cup. The star speedster has been the pillar of the Indian pace set-up since making his debut in 2016 but has been injury-prone since last year. The right-arm pacer played his last match for the Indian team in September 2022.

It is pertinent to mention that Kaif also talked about India’s chances for the 2023 World Cup and thinks the Indian team will have an advantage as they know the condition better than any side. The cricketer-turned-commentator added that senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma need to pull their socks for the mega event as India will play their opening match against Australia on October 8. 

"India's chances are quite bright because playing at home, we know the conditions better compared to other teams. Spinners might be able to play a bigger role. We have the players to win the tournament," said Kaif during a virtual interaction on DD India.

“The challenging part for India will be that you need to have all the senior players ready, fitness-wise and form-wise. Bowling should be okay I guess. If we can bat well, we will be a tough side to beat. If we talk about Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, all these senior players have to stand up and win matches," he further added.

In the context of Kaif's statement, India have been let down by their batting unit several times in knock-out matches of the ICC event. In the semifinal of the 2019 ODI WC, the top three were dismissed at the five-run mark while chasing the target of 240 runs against New Zealand.

Kaif hopes Jasprit Bumrah will be back for Asia Cup before ODI WC 2023 

"If we can add Bumrah in the squad, he has been injured for the last few months now, now they are saying he might be back for the Asia Cup, so it's good news. I think we need Bumrah. Rohit Sharma as a captain has probably missed Bumrah a lot," concluded the ex-Indian cricketer.

The 29-year-old Indian speedster is currently recovering from a back injury at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. With less than 100 days left for the 2023 ODI World Cup to begin, Bumrah will be looking to make a comeback in the International circuit with Asia Cup 2023 in line which will be held in September. He went for his back surgery in March this year and his availability for ODI World Cup will certainly be crucial for the Men in Blue in winning the prestigious tournament.