Will Jasprit Bumrah Play Ranji Trophy? REPORTS Make a Big Claim

India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah could return to red-ball cricket ahead of India's upcoming Test series against New Zealand. The team management has reportedly considered a Ranji Trophy appearance to ensure the fast bowler gets enough match practice before the Test series.

According to reports, the two options being discussed are Jasprit Bumrah in Ranji Trophy 2026-27 or an India A fixture. The final decision, though, will depend on his medical clearance, workload and the team's schedule.

Will Jasprit Bumrah Play Ranji Trophy 2026-27?

Jasprit Bumrah could make an appearance for Gujarat's fixture against Uttar Pradesh starting October 18. The other possibility is to play an India A game, to be played against New Zealand A scheduled from October 24.

However, the white-ball calendar could make the selectors' plans a bit complicated as India's ODI series in NZ kicks off on November 4. Bumrah is likely to play in the ODIs as preparations for the World Cup that will be held next year.

The last appearance of Jasprit Bumrah in Ranji Trophy was in the 2016-17 season when he played against Jharkhand. Since then, he has emerged into one of the best bowlers in the world, thus, establishing himself as a key part of India's Playing 11 across formats.

Why BCCI Wants Bumrah to Play Ranji Trophy?

Jasprit Bumrah has not played a Test for India since the 2025 South Africa series. Hence, the selectors are keen on giving him the red-ball match volume rather than entering the Test series without recent red-ball game time. The New Zealand Test series will be key for India as in terms of the ongoing WTC cycle. The opening match of the series will take place in November this year.

Bumrah's workload nevertheless remains the important factor because of his importance across formats for Team India. The veteran fast bowler was declared fit for India's T20I series against Afghanistan and the 2026 Asian Games earlier this month. The number of matches, though, will be determined by medical clearance and workload management.