The stage is set at Wankhede Stadium for a high-octane clash between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Monday, April 7, with fans eagerly awaiting the possible return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
Mumbai Indians pacer Jasprit Bumrah has joined the side ahead of their home game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. If Bumrah plays, his battle against Virat Kohli might turn out to be a spectacle.
After being sidelined since the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia and missing the Champions Trophy 2025, Bumrah has rejoined the MI squad and participated in two intensive training sessions. If declared match-fit, his comeback could bolster a fast-bowling unit that recently dismantled Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the same venue.
Interestingly, Bumrah made his IPL debut against RCB, famously dismissing Virat Kohli in that very game. As fate would have it, the two icons are set to cross paths again, reigniting a fan-favourite battle.
Former cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra confirmed Bumrah’s likely return and praised his track record against RCB.
“Jasprit Bumrah is back. He’s ready and will play. His record against Bangalore is fantastic — 29 wickets in 19 innings. He debuted against this team and dismissed Virat Kohli in that game,” Chopra said.
Should Bumrah feature, MI’s pace attack could look formidable with a trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, and Deepak Chahar. Although Chahar has struggled for rhythm this season, the return of Bumrah could lend much-needed consistency to the team.
Bumrah vs Kohli in IPL:
16 innings
140 runs
Strike Rate: 147.36
5 dismissals
MI’s campaign so far has been underwhelming, with three losses in four matches. Their only win came against KKR, courtesy of a solid team performance. The five-time champions will be hoping that Bumrah’s presence injects energy and control into their lineup as they look to climb the points table.
