Sun Jan 05 04:10:14 UTC 2025: ## Bumrah Leaves Field with Back Spasm, Kohli Takes Over Captaincy
**Melbourne, Australia:** India’s captain Jasprit Bumrah left the field during the second day of the fifth Test against Australia due to a back spasm. Bumrah, who had already bowled 52 overs in the previous Melbourne Test, bowled only one over after lunch before experiencing discomfort and exiting the game.
Team India’s Prasidh Krishna confirmed Bumrah’s injury, stating that the fast bowler suffered a back spasm and is under the medical team’s observation. Bumrah did not return to the field on day three. Although he underwent precautionary scans and returned to the dressing room, his absence caused Virat Kohli to assume captaincy in his stead. Bumrah had already taken 32 wickets in the series, including two wickets for 33 runs in Australia’s first innings.
The incident raised concerns about Bumrah’s workload management, a topic previously addressed by former captain Rohit Sharma following the Melbourne Test. The absence of a designated vice-captain, due to Bumrah’s role and Rohit’s unavailability, further complicated the situation. While Bumrah’s return before the start of Australia’s second innings remains uncertain, India’s hopes rest on a quick recovery for their star bowler. India set Australia a target of 162 runs to win.
First Piper 