India is all set to play their first Champions Trophy match on February 20 in Dubai. But there are concerns over Team India’s bowling lineup as India will be stepping into the tournament with five spinners and three fast bowlers. One of the biggest setback for India was that Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out following a back injury he sustained in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Who Should Play In Absence Of Jasprit Bumrah?

Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan remains optimistic and believes that the player will rise to the occassion. Harshit Rana, the rising pacer for India has been called up as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement and has impressed everyone with his ODI debut against England. In just few months Rana has represented India in all the three formats and Dhawan believes that he can provide much needed spark to the Indian Team in Dubai.

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Jasprit Bumrah’s Absence A Serious Concern For India

“My concern is they are going to miss Jasprit Bumrah, there is no doubt he will be a big absence and I think they will feel it very strongly. For me, he is the best bowler in the world, and his accuracy is hard to replicate. He is also a very calm character and that is crucial in a huge ICC event like this,” Shikhar Dhawan wrote in his column for the ICC.

Harshit Rana Can Be The ‘X-Factor’

“At the same time, Harshit Rana has come into the side and I think that is really exciting – keep an eye on him, I think he could have a breakout tournament,” he added.

“I like his attitude, he is a go-getter and he is not afraid of anything. He accepts challenges and we have seen in the England series that he is in form. I am sure he will look to seize this opportunity and, if he does, he could provide a real x-factor for India,” said Dhawan.

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India will be playing their first match of Champions Trophy on February 20 against Bangladesh at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE.