Jasprit Bumrah’s return to action during the T20I series in Ireland seems almost certain after the BCCI announced on Friday that the fast bowler was in the final stages of his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore.

Bumrah, whose last competitive match came in September 2022, underwent back surgery in March.

According to the BCCI’s media release, Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna — another fast bowler recuperating from a stress fracture — are both bowling at full intensity.

“The two fast bowlers are in the final stages of their rehab and are bowling with full intensity in the nets. The duo will now play some practice games, which the NCA will organise. The BCCI medical team is pleased with their progress and will make a final decision after assessing them following the practice games,” the media release said.

The Telegraph had reported earlier this week that the selectors were undecided on whether Bumrah should be directly included in the Ireland-bound squad. As per NCA norms, any player returning from a long layoff has to play in the domestic circuit before making it to the international fold.

Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant on the last day of second semifinal match of Duleep Trophy between South and North Zone, at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, on Saturday. File photo

The only option for Bumrah then was to play for West Zone in the 50-over Deodhar Trophy, but the NCA wanted to limit his workload to four overs per match. Given the circumstances, the NCA was forced to organise some practice matches. If he pulls up well in the practice matches, he will be considered for the three-match T20I series in Ireland from August 18 to 23.

Batters KL Rahul (thigh) and Shreyas Iyer (lower back) are also in line for a comeback in the Asia Cup as they recuperate from their respective injuries. “They have resumed batting in the nets and are currently undergoing strength and fitness drills,” the release said. “The BCCI medical team is satisfied with their progress and will increase their intensity in terms of both skills and strength and conditioning.”

The most encouraging news has been Rishabh Pant’s recovery. The wicketkeeper-batter, who underwent surgery after surviving an accident last December, is also making “significant progress”, having resumed batting as well as keeping wicket in the nets. “He is currently following a fitness programme... which includes strength, flexibility and running.”